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CPR Procedures

Knowing CPR isn't only a valuable skill for those who work in the health care profession, it is also a valuable skill for anyone old enough to perform it. You'll never know when your knowledge of CPR could come in handy. In fact, many employers now require that their employees know CPR so they can help co-workers and customers in trouble. The procedures for correct CPR have changed over the years, so make sure that you stay up to date on your technique.

  1. Preliminary Procedure

    • If you happen upon someone who is unconscious, before you begin CPR, you must check for breathing. First, yell to the person. Stomp your feet and clap your hands to see if there is any response. If there isn't, lay the person out so that they are flat on the floor or another hard surface, such as a table or counter. Gently tip his head back so that the Adam's apple is exposed to clear his airways and open his mouth. Lean your head down to check for any signs of breathing; a breeze on your cheek or hot air being blown out. If you detect breathing, then call 911 immediately. If you don't, yell for help and then begin CPR.

    Chest Compressions and Rescue Breaths

    • Chest compressions and rescue breaths can begin when you've discerned that the patient is not breathing. Find her sternum by feeling the middle of the ribcage, then use four fingers to measure lengthwise from that position. Place one hand on that spot with the other hand firmly on top. This is where you should begin your compressions. The new guidelines for CPR are 30 chest compressions to two breaths. The compressions will continue pumping the blood to all organs, while the breaths supply the blood with oxygen. As you compress, you may feel a cracking of the ribs; this is normal. With the amount of pressure you are putting on them, minor injuries may occur, but this is normal.

    New Child Procedures

    • With the old procedures, children received a lower number of chest compressions to breaths. However, in the procedures published by American Heart Association in 2005, the procedures for an adult and child are the same. The difference is the strength that you put behind the compression; obviously, with a small child you would not apply as much pressure. You should apply enough to press the chest one to two inches down. Remember to never stop CPR once it's begun. Trade off with someone else if you get tired while waiting for help to arrive. If your workplace has an emergency automated external defibrillator, someone trained to use it can take over in lieu of continuing CPR. Continue to become educated and trained as the guidelines grow and evolve. You'll never know just when you might need it.

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