Steps of CPR to Know for First Aid

Knowing the steps of CPR is crucial in emergencies. This process involves checking safety, assessing responsiveness, calling for help, and performing chest compressions and rescue breaths. Each step is vital to potentially save a life until professional help arrives.

1. Check the scene for safety

   • Ensure the environment is safe for both the rescuer and the victim.
   • Look for potential hazards such as traffic, fire, or electrical wires.
   • Assess the situation quickly to avoid putting yourself in danger.

2. Check for responsiveness

   • Gently tap the person and shout to see if they respond.
   • Use the AVPU scale: Alert, Verbal, Pain, Unresponsive.
   • If unresponsive, proceed to the next steps without delay.

3. Call for help or activate emergency response system

   • If alone, call emergency services immediately or ask someone else to do so.
   • Provide clear information about the location and nature of the emergency.
   • Stay on the line until help arrives, if possible.

4. Check for breathing

   • Look for chest rise and fall, listen for breath sounds, and feel for breath on your cheek.
   • Do this for no more than 10 seconds.
   • If the person is not breathing or only gasping, begin CPR.

5. Begin chest compressions

   • Position your hands in the center of the chest, interlocking fingers.
   • Compress at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute, pushing down hard and fast.
   • Allow full chest recoil between compressions to ensure blood flow.

6. Give rescue breaths

   • After 30 compressions, open the airway using the head-tilt, chin-lift method.
   • Pinch the nose, seal your lips around the person's mouth, and give 2 breaths.
   • Each breath should last about 1 second and make the chest rise visibly.

7. Continue CPR cycles (30 compressions to 2 breaths)

   • Repeat the cycle of 30 chest compressions followed by 2 rescue breaths.
   • Maintain the compression rate and depth throughout the process.
   • Keep track of time and stay focused on the rhythm.

8. Use an AED if available

   • As soon as an AED arrives, turn it on and follow the voice prompts.
   • Attach the pads to the bare chest as indicated on the device.
   • Ensure no one is touching the person during the analysis and shock delivery.

9. Continue CPR until help arrives or the person shows signs of life

   • Do not stop CPR unless emergency personnel take over or the person starts breathing normally.
   • Monitor for any signs of life, such as movement or normal breathing.
   • Stay committed to providing care until professional help arrives.