You’re on a nature hike with your family when you come across someone collapsed on the ground. You rush forward to help, only to learn that the victim is having an allergic reaction to something, and the person is unconscious, but their pulse is present. Do you proceed with giving CPR?
Timing is everything, and knowing when and when not to perform CPR is important to do the right thing for the victim. Read on to learn more about CPR and when is CPR needed or when not to perform mouth-to-mouth resuscitation.
When is CPR Needed?
The decision to perform CPR should be based on certain criteria. For example, if one witnesses a cardiac arrest, then CPR can help to restart the heart by pumping blood to the rest of the body.
If someone is without a pulse and not breathing, then CPR can help keep oxygenated blood circulating to the brain until medical help arrives.
If in doubt, then it is typically best to err on the side of caution and provide CPR. It is important to assess each situation carefully when deciding when to perform CPR.
When Not to Perform CPR
When not performing CPR is relatively clear-cut, and it’s important to follow a few simple guidelines that could save someone’s life. If someone has a pulse, they don’t need CPR. If a person is breathing, you do not need to perform CPR.
CPR is also not typically used on someone who has been declared dead by a healthcare provider or if a person has a major wound or obvious signs of trauma that indicate they are beyond help.
CPR is also not recommended if the person is actively bleeding or if the environment is not safe, such as if there are hazardous materials in the air or if it’s unsafe to touch the person.
CPR should not be attempted if the person experiencing cardiac arrest is in the late stages of a terminal illness.
How to Be a Certified Life Saver
Getting a CPR Training Certification is a great way to be prepared in case of an emergency. It’s important to be aware of the steps required so you can complete the process correctly.
Find an accredited training program and register for the appropriate class. Depending on your location, you may be able to find a CPR class at a local Red Cross or fire department.
If not, check out the best online course like MyCPR NOW, which can be taken at your convenience. Once the course is completed and the skills have been demonstrated, participants will receive a certification card.
This card will need to be renewed every two years, so keep archiving all CPR certifications. Having a CPR Training Certification is a beneficial tool to have, and with an understanding of the current CPR guidelines, you will be able to count on it when the time comes.
Learn Whether or Not CPR Is Needed Starting Today
CPR could mean the difference between life and death in some cases, so it is important to understand when is CPR needed or not.
But, in any case, it is best to consult a healthcare professional.
So, what are you waiting for? Take the initiative and become certified in CPR today. You might just save a life!
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