What Everyone Should Know About CPR: The Essential Guide

Kerry Zhou
Mar 13
3 min read

Updated: Mar 27

In emergency situations, performing CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) can be the difference between life and death. Sudden cardiac arrest can strike anyone, anywhere, often without warning. I want to imform you about the basics of CPR, detailing when and how to perform it effectively.

What is CPR?

CPR is a lifesaving technique utilized during emergencies when someone’s breathing or heartbeat has stopped. The primary goal is to maintain blood circulation, thus preserving brain function, until professional medical help arrives. By using CPR, bystanders can significantly boost the survival chances of affected individuals—studies show that immediate CPR can double or even triple a victim’s likelihood of survival.

When to Use CPR

Recognizing when CPR is necessary can be crucial. Signs that someone may need CPR include:

Unresponsiveness: If a person does not respond to verbal cues or physical stimulus.
No normal breathing: If a person hasn’t taken a breath for 10 seconds or if their breathing is abnormal or gasping.

For example, if you see a friend suddenly collapse during a game or a family member loses consciousness at home, it is vital to quickly assess their responsiveness and breathing. If they are unresponsive and not breathing, you need to act without delay.

Calling for Help

Before initiating CPR, it is essential to call for emergency medical services. In the U.S., this typically involves dialing 911. Ensure that you provide clear details about the situation, as quick medical support is vital for the victim’s recovery. Studies show that emergency responders can arrive within 5-10 minutes on average; however, starting CPR immediately can significantly increase survival chances before help arrives.

The Steps of CPR

Check Responsiveness and Breathing:
- Shake the person gently and shout loudly.
- If there is no response, verify their breathing.
- Place your hands, one on top of the other, in the center of the chest
Position the Person:
- If unresponsive and not breathing, carefully roll them onto their back on a hard, flat surface
Start Chest Compressions:
- Use your upper body weight to compress the chest firmly and quickly. Aim for a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute, allowing for full chest recoil between compressions
Deliver Rescue Breaths (if trained):
- After every 30 compressions, provide 2 rescue breaths if you are trained.
- Tilt the head back slightly and pinch the nose shut, then create a seal around the mouth. Give one breath for about 1 second, ensuring you see the chest rise
Continue Until Help Arrives:
- Keep performing cycles of 30 chest compressions and 2 rescue breaths (if trained) until professional help arrives or the person begins to breathe.

A CPR training mannequin on a flat surface — Training mannequin used for CPR practice

Why Learn CPR?

Learning CPR is vital and has far-reaching implications. This is also a skill that can be vital on the field. One example is Damar Hamlin's incident a few years back. Hamlin is a football player who went into cardiac arrest in the middle of a game. Luckily, medics rushed on the field and were able to perform CPR. However, this isn't the case for all games. In a case where there are no trainers nearby, knowing how to use CPR, even roughly, can prolong a life.

Common CPR Myths

Misconceptions about CPR can discourage people from getting involved. Here are a couple of persistent myths:

Myth: Only trained professionals can perform CPR.
Fact: Anyone can perform CPR! Basic chest compressions alone can effectively maintain blood circulation.

The Role of AEDs

Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) are devices designed to analyze heart rhythms and deliver a shock if necessary to restore a normal heartbeat. They are often found in public areas such as malls and airports. Using an AED in conjunction with CPR can greatly improve survival rates; studies suggest that the chances of survival increase by 70% when a defibrillator is used.

Getting Certified

Consider enrolling in a CPR course to develop your skills and confidence. Most certifications last for two years. You'll be able to learn vital emergency steps, including how to respond effectively to different scenarios.

Essential Takeaway

Knowing the basics of CPR is a skill that everyone should strive to master. Cardiac emergencies can occur unexpectedly, and your prompt response can save a life. This knowledge not only equips you but also encourages others to act during crises.