What is Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)?

Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) is a life-saving emergency procedure used when a person's heart stops beating, a condition known as cardiac arrest, or when a person stops breathing. This technique aims to maintain the flow of blood and oxygen through the body until emergency medical assistance arrives. In cases of cardiac or respiratory arrest, every second is critical, as permanent brain damage can occur quickly in the absence of treatment. Therefore, knowing how to perform CPR can contribute to saving a life.

When should CPR be initiated?

CPR should be initiated immediately if the person is unresponsive and not breathing normally. Before starting, check the person by tapping on their shoulder and shouting, "Are you okay?" Monitor whether they are breathing normally; gasping or gurgling sounds are not considered normal breathing. If the person does not respond and is not breathing normally, begin CPR immediately.

If another person is nearby, ask them to call emergency services (such as 911) and fetch an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) if available, while you begin CPR. If you are alone, call emergency services first, then begin CPR.

Basic CPR Steps

To perform CPR, ensure the person is lying on their back. Do not wait to move them to a different surface; begin CPR immediately. The basic steps include the following:

• Chest Compressions: Place the heel of one hand in the center of the person's chest, then place your other hand on top. Position your shoulders directly over your hands and keep your elbows straight. Push hard and fast, straight down to a depth of about 2 inches (about 5 cm) for adults, and at a steady rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute. Allow the chest to rise completely between each compression.
• Rescue Breaths (if trained): If you have received training in CPR, you can perform rescue breaths along with chest compressions. After every 30 compressions, open the airway by tilting the head and lifting the chin. Pinch the person's nose shut with your fingers and give two breaths, with each breath lasting about one second. Observe the rise of the chest.
• Hands-Only CPR: If you have not received any CPR training, you can perform hands-only CPR for adolescents or adults whose heart has stopped beating. This type uses chest compressions only, without breaths, to maintain circulation. Continue compressions until help arrives or the person begins to breathe normally.

CPR for Children and Infants

CPR steps differ slightly between adults, children, and infants. Children require both chest compressions and rescue breaths; hands-only CPR is not recommended for children. When performing chest compressions on a child, push down about one-third of the depth of the child's chest. If the Automated External Defibrillator (AED) has special pediatric pads, use them; otherwise, adult pads can be used.

For more detailed information regarding CPR for adults, children, and infants, you can visit Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation: A Practical Guide for Adults, Children, and Infants (Arabic).

The Importance of Training and Certification

Reading about CPR is not a substitute for hands-on training. The best way to be prepared in emergency situations is to take an accredited training course. To be fully prepared, it is recommended to renew CPR training every two years. Many community organizations and hospitals offer accredited training courses.

Medical references

• CPR
• CPR - adult - series