CPR Guide 101

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is a life-saving technique that keeps the blood flow intact body during cardiac arrest. In 2015, the American Heart Association (AHA) released guidelines for CPR and emergency, effective for people of all ages, including adults. The primary change is the new limit for the compression depth for adults and the rate of chest compressions.

2015 CPR Recommendations for Locals

The 2015 guidelines' focal point is the importance of immediate bystander response when there is a cardiac arrest situation. They say that if you see someone collapse, first call for emergency medical services (EMS) and then perform CPR as soon as possible.If you are not trained, best to perform hands-only CPR. This involves only chest compressions and no mouth-to-mouth resuscitation.Ensure that you press hard and fast on the center of the affectee's chest, 100 to 120 compressions per minute.If you are a trained professional, perform 30 chest compressions and two breaths. According to the guidelines, give two rescue breaths, even if the person vomits, to help prevent the risk of airway obstruction.

Key Updates to the 2015 CPR Guidelines

Other than the addition of a new compression depth limit for adults, the 2015 CPR guidelines include several other updates.Bystanders to use mobile/smartphones to seek the nearest automated external defibrillator (AED) and get instructions on how to use it.The bystander is to perform chest compressions before defibrillation in some cases. This helps increase the chances of successful defibrillation.

What is the Need for New Limits?

The new limits for compression depth on adults are based on the latest scientific evidence and research.The guideline says that a compression depth of at least 2 inches or 5 cm is apt, no more than 2.4 inches 6 cm for adults.The range ensures that the chest compression is enough to circulate blood without causing damage to their internal organs.According to the guideline, a compression rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute is recommended. This adequately maintains blood flow to the brain and other vital organs.The limits are set to help improve the effectiveness of CPR techniques and increase the chances of survival for cardiac arrest patients.

Key Recommendations For Children

The 2015 guidelines include specific limits for CPR on children. For example, in infants (up to 1 year old), CPR with two fingers on the center of their chest with a depth of 1.5 inches or 4 cm is recommended. The compression rate of 100 to 120 per minute is appropriate for a positive response.As for children between 1 to 8 years old, CPR with the heel of one or two hands on the center of the chest works well. A depth of 2 inches or 5 cm and a compression rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute is set.

Final Note

Want to know more about CPR? Talk to professionals from Northwest Cardio Vascular for more information. Dial (281) 807-5253 to request an appointment.