What Are the Steps in Giving CPR?

Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) provides oxygen to the brain and heart of a victim who is not breathing and does not have a pulse. CPR is administered to adults by giving cycles of 30 chest compressions and two rescue breaths (30:2). Chest compressions provide direct pressure over the heart, which helps circulate blood throughout the body while rescue breathing replaces oxygen to the victim.

The heart, brain and other organs die rapidly without adequate blood and oxygen circulation, making CPR essential for giving a body what it needs for a better chance at survival.

Preparation

• Don't delay in calling 911 if someone is not breathing. Emergency Medical Technicians carry automated defibrillators that can restart the heart with a jolt of electricity. Place the call before you begin CPR.

  Before you provide CPR, first ensure that the victim is not breathing and does not have a pulse. Place two fingers on the side of the victim's neck just beneath the jaw and feel for 10 seconds.

  Determine whether or not the victim is breathing by placing your cheek just above the victim's mouth. If the victim is breathing you may feel breath on your skin. Additionally, watch the victim's chest to see if it rises. Watch and feel for breathing for at least 10 seconds.

  Once you have determined the victim is not breathing and does not have a pulse, begin CPR. If the victim is breathing or has a pulse, do not begin CPR.

Rescue Breathing

• Providing oxygen is necessary to keep the victim's brain and tissues alive. Whenever possible, use of a rescue mask over the patient's mouth is recommended to prevent saliva exposure and contamination between you and the victim.

  Deliver oxygen to the victim by pinching the victim's nose closed and placing your mouth over the victim's mouth. Blow your breath into the victim's mouth for about one second. Repeat this for a total of two times.

Chest Compressions

• Once two rescue breaths have been given, begin chest compressions to start circulating blood and oxygen throughout the victim's body.

  Kneel beside the victim and pull up his shirt so you can see the chest.

  Place the heel of your right hand on the center of the victim's chest, just between the nipples. This placement provides direct pressure to the heart, which is necessary to circulate blood. Then place your left hand over your right hand, keeping the heel of your right hand on the chest.

  Chest compressions are delivered using upper body strength so your arms should be kept straight at all times. Compress the victim's chest downward, pressing hard and fast so the chest sinks beneath the pressure.

  Give 30 compressions, continuing to press hard and fast so blood can circulate. Once compressions are complete, administer another two rescue breaths. Continue providing cycles of thirty chest compressions and two rescue breaths until medical help arrives.