Hands-Only CPR (For Witnessed Sudden Collapse)
July 31st, 2011 by Allen James
Many people have asked me about Hands-Only CPR. First, let me make this clear. Hands-Only CPR training is NOT a replacement for formal CPR training that carries a certificate that can be used in the workplace or to satisfy professional licensing training requirements.
It is simple training for people who do not need a certificate but want to respond when a sudden cardiac emergency happens in front of them.
This simple training can be of great value until advanced trained personnel arrive.
Remember, Keep it Simple!
Check & Call
- CHECK the scene for your safety and then CHECK the person.
- Tap on shoulder and shout, “Are you okay?” Then quickly look for Breathing.
- If you are alone, call 911 then begin CPR otherwise, have someone else call.
- If unresponsive and not breathing, BEGIN CHEST COMPRESSIONS.
Give Chest Compressions
- Place the heel of your hand on the center of the chest.
- Place the heel of the other hand on top of the first hand lacing the fingers together.
- Keep your arms straight and position your shoulders directly over your hands.
- Push hard and fast.
- Compress the chest at least 2 inches (infant 1.5)
- Compress at least 100 times per minute (To the beat of “Staying Alive”).
- Let the chest rise completely before pushing down again.
- Continue chest compressions.
Do Not Stop
Stop ONLY if you see ONE of the following:
- You see obvious signs of life (breathing),
- You are too exhausted to continue,
- A trained responder arrives and takes over,
- An AED is ready to use,
- EMS personnel arrive and take over,
or - The scene becomes unsafe.
Please remember, Hands-Only CPR is NOT a substitute for full CPR and First Aid training. No certificate comes with Hands-Only CPR but it can make a big difference to someone in need. Please contact us if you have any questions or want to receive information about other CPR training topics.
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