Overview of CPR, Essay Example

CPR, or cardiopulmonary resuscitation, is a lifesaving technique performed at some point on a daily basis around the world by almost any individual with the knowledge and has saved countless lives that would otherwise have been lost. There are basic principles to this method and everyone should learn it because it literally makes a difference between an individual having a chance of life or dying before medical support can arrive in time to take over with professional services. With that being said, there are techniques needed and individuals should have the proper training to use this life-saving protocol if ever in the situation where it is required.

It has been deemed to improve the chances of survival immediately following a heart attack or other cardiac arrest episode, such as electrocution(Travers, Rea and Bobrow). The person performing CPR should immediately recognize that an intervention is needed and make sure help is obtained, begin administering CPR with chest compressions and continue until help arrives. There is also a small need for rescue breathing to ensure the oxygen delivery from the brain to the lungs and this is vital to the survival of all of the organs in an individual’s body(Travers, Rea and Bobrow).

If trained properly on the use of an automated electronic defillibrator and one is handy, a rescuer should begin use of this as soon as possible. The new AED machines are equipped to give step by step instructions so it is easier to use in case of panic or if the rescuer has not had much experience in this aspect before. No matter what, from an infant to an elderly patient, CPR is a lifesaving technique that is highly efficient if performed as soon as possible and has helped save the lives of many individuals when they otherwise would have been lost.

Works Cited

Travers, A, et al. 2010 American Heart Association guidelines for cardiopulmonary resuscitation and emergency cardiovascular care science. 2012. Web. 11 December 2012.