If someone stops breathing, immediate action must be taken. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is a lifesaving procedure that can double or triple the chances of survival of someone whose heart has stopped. In the event of an emergency, follow these steps to perform CPR.

5 Steps of CPR

1. Access the Situation

If you see someone in distress, you must first determine if they need CPR. Give them a brisk shake by the shoulders and, if you know their name, shout it for a few seconds. If you don’t know their name, yell “wake up” to get their attention. If they don’t wake up, call 911. Still call the proper authorities if they wake up disoriented. They may still need medical care.

2. Check for Breathing

Immediately after calling for medical assistance, check if the person is breathing. To do this, tilt their head back and wait a few seconds. If they do not take a breath within 10 seconds, begin CPR. 

3. Get Into Position

To start the procedure, make sure the distressed person is lying flat on their back. Then kneel next to them, place one hand on the center of their chest. Take your other hand and cover the one on the chest, interlocking your fingers. However, you should keep your fingers raised so that you do not inadvertently injure the person’s rib cage during the procedure. Keep your arms straight and rest the heel of your hand on their chest.  

4. Start Compressions

Push forward from your shoulders with your hands directly over the person’s chest. Press down about two inches and do it quickly. Ideally, you should compress the chest at least twice per second. As you release the pressure and let the chest rise between compressions, keep your hands on their body. 

5. Give Rescue Breaths

Move the person’s head back slightly while lifting the chin to open their airway. Then, pinch their nose to close their nostrils, place your mouth over theirs, and blow until their chest rises. Do this twice. Complete rescue breaths after every 30 compressions and continue the procedure until help arrives. 

If you are interested in CPR training, the professionals at Northern KY Emergency Medical Services Inc in Fort Thomas, KY, will give you the training you need. Serving the Greater Cincinnati area for over 50 years, this certified American Heart Association® and American Safety and Health Institute training center offers a variety of health training courses. Whether you’re interested in first aid certification, OSHA training, or cardiac screening, their experienced health care instructors will give you the tools and knowledge you need for emergencies. To learn more about their courses, call (859) 572-4511 or visit them online today.