CPR stands for CardioPulmonary Resuscitation. It is a life-saving technique that helps someone whose heart has stopped beating or who has stopped breathing. When a person’s heart stops, blood and oxygen no longer flow to the brain and other vital organs. If not treated immediately, this can lead to brain damage or even death within minutes. That’s why CPR is critical.

Why is CPR Important?

Every year, millions of people suffer from sudden cardiac arrest. Most of them do not survive because help doesn’t arrive fast enough. Performing CPR within the first few minutes can double or even triple a person’s chances of survival.

When Should You Perform CPR?

You should perform CPR when the person:
– Is unconscious
– Is not breathing or only gasping
– Has no pulse
– Shows no signs of life

This situation might occur due to:
– Heart attack
– Drowning
– Electric shock
– Choking
– Severe trauma
– Drug overdose

How to Check Responsiveness

1. Tap on their shoulders
2. Shout loudly: “Are you okay?”
3. Check breathing: Look, listen, and feel for breath for 10 seconds.
4. Check for pulse (if trained)

If there’s no response, no normal breathing, and no pulse — start CPR immediately.

CPR Procedure: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Call for Emergency Help

Before starting CPR:
– Call your country’s emergency number:
  – India: 112
– Or ask someone else to call while you start CPR.

Step 2: Open the Airway

Place the person on their back on a flat, firm surface.
Kneel next to their chest.
Tilt the head back slightly and lift the chin — this opens the airway.

Step 3: Perform Chest Compressions

Place the heel of your hand in the center of the chest (on the breastbone).
Place your other hand on top, interlocking your fingers.
Keep your elbows straight and shoulders directly above your hands.
Push hard and fast.

Compression Guidelines:
– Depth: 2 inches (5 cm)
– Speed: 100–120 compressions per minute
– Let the chest rise completely between compressions

Step 4: Give Rescue Breaths (if trained)

After 30 compressions, give 2 rescue breaths:
1. Tilt the person’s head back.
2. Pinch the nose shut.
3. Take a normal breath.
4. Seal your mouth over theirs and blow for about 1 second.
5. Watch the chest rise.

CPR Ratio

30:2 Ratio = 30 compressions + 2 breaths. Repeat this cycle until help arrives or the person recovers.

Hands-Only CPR (for Untrained Bystanders)

If you haven’t had formal training:
– Just do chest compressions only.
– Push hard and fast — no mouth-to-mouth required.

Hands-only CPR is better than doing nothing.

CPR for Children and Infants

Children (1–12 years old):
– Use one hand for compressions if the child is small.
– Compression depth: about 2 inches
– CPR Ratio: 30:2

Infants (under 1 year):
– Use two fingers for compressions
– Compression depth: 1.5 inches (4 cm)
– CPR Ratio: 30:2

Tips for Effective CPR

– Don’t stop compressions for more than 10 seconds.
– If others are available, take turns every 2 minutes.
– Always make sure the person is on a firm surface.
– Push harder than you think — it’s necessary to circulate blood.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

– Pressing too lightly
– Stopping too often
– Not calling emergency services
– Poor hand positioning
– Waiting for help instead of acting

When NOT to Perform CPR

– If the person is breathing normally and has a pulse
– If they are responsive
– If there are obvious signs of death
– If a medical professional has taken over

Learn CPR Professionally

Taking a short CPR course can make a huge difference. Many are affordable and include a certificate.

Popular training organizations:
– Indian Red Cross Society
– American Heart Association
– St John Ambulance
– National CPR Foundation
– Online certified courses on Coursera/Udemy

FAQs About CPR

Q: Can I break someone’s ribs while doing CPR?
A: Yes, it can happen. But saving their life is more important.

Q: Should I do CPR on someone who’s gasping?
A: Yes — gasping is not normal breathing.

Q: Is mouth-to-mouth necessary?
A: Only if you’re trained. Otherwise, do hands-only CPR.

Q: How long do I do CPR?
A: Until help arrives or the person starts breathing/responding.

Final Thoughts

You don’t need to be a doctor to save a life. Just knowing how to do CPR can make you someone’s hero one day.

So next time you see someone in distress — don’t panic, just remember:
– Check
– Call
– Compress

CPR saves lives. And now, you know how.