How to Perform CPR Using CAB

According to the American Heart Association, 92 percent of individuals experiencing cardiac arrest die before reaching the hospital. However, immediate CPR could triple the chances of survival for these individuals. What was once known as the "A-B-Cs" of cardiopulmonary resuscitation, are now known as the "C-A-Bs." In order to maintain critical oxygen levels and keep blood pumping throughout the body, chest compressions should be performed first.

Instructions

• 1

  Call for help or instruct someone else to call 9-1-1. Make sure to direct your command to a specific person, rather than a group of people. If you turn to a crowd and yell, "Someone call 9-1-1!" there is a good chance that no one will call, as everyone might expect that someone else is taking care of it. If there is an automated external defibrillator nearby, grab it and follow the instructions listed on the device. Otherwise, begin CPR using the "C-A-Bs."

• 2

  The "C" in "C-A-B" stands for compressions. The American Heart Association recommends pushing down on the center of the victim's chest 30 times, at a rate of 100 beats per minute. The chest should be pushed down two inches for adults and children, and 1.5 inches for infants. Do this until a CPR-trained professional arrives.

• 3

  The "A" in "C-A-B" stands for airway. If you have been trained in CPR, you can open the victim's airway by tilting the victim's chin up. Otherwise, continue to perform chest compressions until help arrives.

• 4

  The "B" in "C-A-B" stands for breathing. Pinch the victim's nose so that no air is coming out. Breathe into the victim's mouth twice. Each breath should last no longer than one second. Make sure you can see the chest rise with each breath you give the victim. However, if you have never been trained in CPR, continue to administer hands-only CPR.

• 5

  Repeat sets of 30 compressions and two breaths until help arrives.