CPR Techniques and Procedures

Start CPR

• Use a hardboard beneath the patient's chest for stability during compressions.
• Perform chest compressions hard (at least 5 cm depth) and fast (100 to 120 compressions per minute).
• Ensure complete chest recoil between compressions to maximize blood flow.
• Minimize interruptions in compressions; ideally, rotate rescuers every 2 minutes.
• Attach monitors such as a defibrillator with ECG leads and a pulse oximetry probe for saturation measurement.

Airway and Breathing

• Clear the patient's mouth of any food particles, foreign bodies, or vomit.
• If secretions are present, perform throat suction to maintain airway patency.
• Utilize a chin lift technique while extending the neck to open the airway.
• Connect high-flow oxygen to an ambu bag and initiate bag-mask ventilation.
• Ensure the mask fits tightly over the nose and mouth; use the "C" and "E" hand position to secure it.
• Squeeze the ambu bag firmly with the other hand to deliver breaths.

Cardiac Arrest

• Defined as the abrupt cessation of heart function leading to hemodynamic collapse.
• Respiration typically ceases within moments after cardiac arrest; occasional gasps may occur.
• In primary respiratory arrest, the heart may continue to beat for a few minutes despite a lack of breathing.

Diagnosis

• Identify unresponsiveness in the patient.
• Look for signs of cyanosis, absent breath sounds, and absent heart sounds.
• Check for a lack of carotid pulse and overall breathing activity.
• Blood pressure is typically unrecordable during cardiac arrest.

Golden Rules

• Quick identification of cardiac arrest is crucial; every second counts.
• Immediate initiation of CPR is essential to improve patient outcomes.
• Early defibrillation significantly increases chances of survival.

Basic CPR/ACLS

• Basic CPR, referred to as Basic Life Support (BLS), does not involve medications or advanced equipment.
• Advanced CPR, known as Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS), incorporates equipment and drugs.
• Follow the CAB protocol for unresponsive, pulseless patients: Circulation, Airway, Breathing.
• Resuscitation efforts should involve a coordinated team, with a designated leader assigning roles.

Recognition of Cardiac Arrest

• Assess unresponsiveness and scene safety.
• Confirm the absence of normal breathing or notable gasping.
• Ensure no detectable pulse is felt within 10 seconds.
• Immediately call for emergency assistance to escalate care.

Test your knowledge on life-saving CPR techniques. This quiz covers essential steps such as chest compressions, airway management, and the use of monitoring equipment during cardiac arrest. Ensure you are well-versed in the correct procedures to respond effectively in emergencies.