CPR stands for cardiopulmonary resuscitation and is a life-saving technique used when someone’s heart or breathing stops. It is an emergency procedure that combines chest compressions and rescue breaths. During CPR, chest compressions are used to keep the heart pumping and rescue breaths provide oxygen to the lungs.
Compression to Breath Ratio
The ratio of chest compressions to rescue breaths is the most important aspect of CPR. The recommended ratio is 30 compressions to 2 breaths, also known as 30:2 CPR. This ratio is based on research that suggests that 30 compressions are more effective than 15 compressions. The higher number of compressions increases the amount of oxygenated blood that is delivered to the heart and brain.
Variations of CPR Ratios
In some cases, a different ratio may be recommended. For example, infants and children may require more rescue breaths than chest compressions. The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends a 15:2 ratio for infants and a 30:2 ratio for children over 1 year old. Additionally, lay rescuers are encouraged to perform hands-only CPR, which is chest compressions only without rescue breaths. This is typically recommended for adults who suffer from sudden cardiac arrest.
Conclusion
In conclusion, CPR is an emergency procedure that combines chest compressions and rescue breaths. The recommended ratio is 30 compressions to 2 breaths, also known as 30:2 CPR. In some cases, a different ratio may be recommended for infants and children. Additionally, lay rescuers are encouraged to perform hands-only CPR, which is chest compressions only without rescue breaths.
