CPR is an abbreviation for cardiopulmonary resuscitation, a life-saving technique for aiding someone who is unresponsive and not breathing. CPR certification gives you knowledge on how to handle breathing problems caused by medical conditions, like choking, which can result in cardiac arrest. This skill keeps the victim’s blood flowing and supplies oxygen to their organs. Below are some signs that someone needs CPR:
1. Cardiac Arrest
The most common sign that someone can’t breathe is a lack of pulse on their wrist, neck, elbow, or groin. Lack of a pulse indicates that the heart cannot pump blood independently at that time. Once you notice someone showing signs of cardiac arrest, administer CPR, which consists of chest compressions and rescue breaths. CPR temporarily aids the heart to transport oxygenated blood to the brain and the rest of the body. An average person can only go without oxygen for up to four minutes before brain damage can occur. Discontinue CPR when the person starts breathing normally or when help arrives.
2. Unconsciousness
If you have CPR certification, you’re equipped with the skills to assist someone unconscious and not breathing. If you come across an unconscious person, call for help and start giving them CPR. If the person is unresponsive, it might be a sign of cardiac arrest. A fresh supply of oxygen into their bodies should be your top priority. Compress their chest several times per minute to regain blood flow.
3. Choking
Choking is a common sign that an object or substance has blocked someone’s airway. It may also be caused by certain medical conditions or circumstances. Eating too quickly, not chewing food properly, and eating while lying down can also cause choking. Risk factors include toddlers, the extremely aged, those affected by neurological diseases, and those with esophagus disorders. Call 911 before you start performing CPR. An alternative to CPR in such a situation is Heimlich’s maneuver to help push out the food.
4. Drowning
When someone is submerged underwater and can’t breathe, the oxygen levels in their body drop, eventually leading to cardiac arrest. Once you get your victim out of the water and they’re unresponsive, immediately start CPR. It restores oxygen flow into their lungs and the rest of the body until help arrives. Open their airway by putting your palm on their forehead, tilting their head back, and lifting their chin. CPR can restore their normal breathing as they wait for medical assistance.
5. Drug Overdose
A drug overdose is caused by the overconsumption of substances like opioids contained in heroin or hard drugs. If you suspect that someone has overdosed and they’re unresponsive, check for their breathing or pulse. If they have no pulse, call for help and start administering CPR immediately. Drug overdoses can cause respiratory failure and unconsciousness. Signs of an overdose may include breathing problems, pinpoint pupils, weak pulse, and blue nails.
6. Electrocution
Electrocution is a severe and sometimes fatal injury caused by electric shock from an electric current passing through the body. Signs of electrocution include loss of consciousness, muscle spasms, numbness, tingling, or a lack of a pulse. Immediately call for medical assistance if you notice any of those signs. Electrocution interferes with the heart’s electrical system, resulting in cardiac arrest. Confirm that the surroundings are safe before administering CPR to prevent further damage.
Get Your CPR Certification Today
CPR is a skill that can help you preserve a victim’s life while you wait for professional help. Learning to perform CPR well will help you when you are in high-stress situations. Proper CPR training and certification eliminate doubt and prepare you for any of the above emergencies. Train and acquire CPR certification from a trusted instructor today.
