What Are The 7 Steps of CPR?

What if you witness someone suddenly collapsing and becoming unresponsive? Would you know what to do?

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation, commonly known as CPR, can be the difference between life and death in such situations.

Knowing how to perform CPR, or at least having an idea of CPR basics can enable you to act swiftly and potentially save a life.

Today’s blog will guide you through the essential 7 steps of CPR procedure, helping you be prepared for emergencies.

What is CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation)?

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is an emergency life saving procedure performed to manually preserve brain function until further measures can be taken to restore spontaneous blood circulation and breathing in a person who is in cardiac arrest. 

The CPR procedure combines chest compressions, which mimic the heart’s pumping action, with rescue breaths to keep oxygenated blood flowing to the brain and other vital organs. This technique is critical in maintaining circulation and oxygenation during cardiac emergencies, potentially saving lives.

What Are The 7 Steps of CPR?

• Assess the Situation:
  Before starting the CPR procedure, quickly assess the environment to ensure it is safe for you and the victim. Check for immediate dangers such as traffic, fire, or electrical hazards. Once safe, approach the victim and check their responsiveness by tapping their shoulder and shouting, “Are you okay?”

• Call for Help:
  If the person is unresponsive, immediately call 911 or direct someone nearby to make the call. Clearly explain the situation, provide the exact location, and mention that CPR is needed. If an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is available, have someone bring it to the scene.

• Open the Airway:
  Gently tilt the victim’s head backward and lift their chin to open the airway. This helps ensure that the airway is clear and unobstructed. For unresponsive infants, be careful to avoid overextension of the neck.

• Check for Breathing:
  Look, listen, and feel for signs of breathing for no more than 10 seconds. Place your ear near the person’s mouth and nose while looking at their chest to see if it rises and falls. If there are no signs of breathing or only gasping, begin CPR immediately.

• Start Chest Compressions:
  Place the heel of one hand on the center of the victim’s chest, then place your other hand on top and interlock your fingers. Position your shoulders directly over your hands and keep your arms straight. Push hard and fast, compressing the chest at least 2 inches deep at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute. Allow the chest to fully recoil before you perform chest compressions again.

• Deliver Rescue Breaths:
  After 30 chest compressions, give two rescue breaths. Pinch the victim’s nose shut, take a normal breath, and make a complete seal over the person’s mouth with yours. Blow into the person’s mouth to make the chest rise. Each breath should last about 1 second. If the chest does not rise, reposition the head and try again.

• Continue CPR Steps:
  Continue the cycle of 30 chest compressions and 2 rescue breaths until a trained medical responder arrives, an AED is available and ready to use, or the person shows signs of life. If an AED is used, follow its voice prompts closely.

Why is CPR Needed?

CPR is essential in several critical situations:

• Cardiac Arrest: When the heart stops pumping blood effectively.

• Drowning: To restore breathing and circulation.

• Choking: When an obstruction causes the person to stop breathing.

• Drug Overdose: To keep oxygenated blood flowing to vital organs.

• Severe Bleeding or Trauma: To support life until professional help arrives.

When Not To Use CPR?

There are certain situations where CPR should not be performed:

• Obvious Signs of Death: Rigor mortis, decapitation, decomposition.

• Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Orders: Respect legal DNR requests.

• Unsafe Environment: If the scene poses a danger to the rescuer.

Who Can Perform CPR?

Anyone trained in CPR, or someone who’s thoroughly aware of the CPR guidelines is capable of performing CPR, including:

• Healthcare Professionals: Doctors, nurses, paramedics.

• First Responders: Police officers, firefighters.

• Trained Laypersons: Individuals who have completed CPR classes, and have CPR instructions.

• General Public: Even without formal training, anyone can perform Hands-Only CPR (chest compressions only) in an emergency.

Why Should Everyone Know These Steps of CPR?

Understanding the steps of CPR is crucial for several reasons:

• Life-Saving Skills: Increases the chances of survival during cardiac emergencies.

• Preparedness: Enables quick, effective action in critical situations.

• Community Safety: Broad CPR knowledge creates safer communities.

• Confidence: Empowers individuals to respond effectively in emergencies.

Knowing how to perform CPR can make you a vital link in the chain of survival during cardiac emergencies. By mastering these steps, you can help save lives and provide critical support when it’s needed most.

Frequently Asked Questions

– Disclaimer –

This blog is for informational & educational purposes only and does not intend to substitute any professional medical assistance or consultation. For any health-related concerns, please consult with your physician, or call 911.