|
This FAQ list is by no means exhaustive and is not intended to aid in the self-diagnosis of any medical condition. This page is meant for informational purposes only and cannot take the place of a diagnosis and treatment plan of qualified medical personnel. such as your family physician.
What is CPR?
CPR is an emergency lifesaving procedure that is performed when a person's own breathing or heartbeat have stopped, such as in cases of electric shock or drowning. CPR is a combination of rescue breathing, which provides oxygen to the victim's lungs, and chest compressions, which keeps oxygenated blood circulating until an effective heartbeat and breathing can be restored.
Permanent brain damage or death can occur within minutes if blood flow ceases. Therefore, it is critical that blood flow and breathing be continued until trained medical help arrives.
Do CPR techniques differ depending on the age of the victim?
Yes! These differences are addressed in the SOS CPR classes and can be quite significant. For a brief explanation, as well as diagrams, additional information can be found at the United States' National Institute of Health's web site. Please keep in mind that CPR can be lifesaving, but it is best performed by those who have been trained in an accredited CPR course. The procedures described at the NIH site are not a substitute for CPR training.
Is time an important factor when determining if an individual requires CPR?
Yes! Time is crucial when dealing with an unconscious person who is not breathing. Permanent brain damage begins after only 4 minutes without oxygen, and death can occur in as little as 4 to 6 minutes later.
Why might a victim require CPR?
The "simple" answer is an individual may require CPR when in cardiopulmonary arrest. Cardiopulmonary arrest is a combination of two life-threatening conditions: absence of breathing and lack of an effective heartbeat.
Major causes of cardiopulmonary arrest in adults include: heart disease, trauma, excessive bleeding, drug overdose, and sepsis (a severe illness caused by overwhelming infection of the bloodstream by toxin-producing bacteria).
Major causes of cardiopulmonary arrest in adults include: heart disease, trauma, excessive bleeding, drug overdose, and sepsis (a severe illness caused by overwhelming infection of the bloodstream by toxin-producing bacteria).
| 
