CPR, or cardiopulmonary resuscitation, is a set of emergency maneuvers performed to save the life of a person who has stopped breathing or whose heart has stopped beating. It is used in situations of cardiac arrest, drowning, or any other condition that causes the stoppage of blood circulation and breathing.
Components of CPR:
1. Chest Compressions: Chest compressions are performed to help maintain blood circulation to vital organs. It is recommended to do at least 100-120 compressions per minute.
2. Ventilations: In some cases, rescue breaths may be given to provide oxygen to the lungs. This is done alternating with chest compressions.
3. Defibrillation: If a defibrillator is available, it can be used to deliver an electrical shock to the heart in case it is in a dangerous arrhythmia.
Importance of CPR:
CPR is crucial because it can significantly increase the chances of survival of a person in cardiac arrest. The sooner CPR is started, the greater the chance of success.
It is recommended that people train in CPR, since knowing how to act in an emergency can mean the difference between life and death.
