CPR certification can save lives during a medical emergency, but if you don't know CPR, choosing to act can be a difficult, or even dangerous, decision. Fortunately, recent changes to CPR guidelines make it easier for bystanders to help in emergencies.
New CPR Guidelines for Bystanders
The updated CPR guidelines simplify the procedure for those who do not have CPR certification. Here are the two simple steps to follow:
1. Call 911:
- Immediately call emergency services to ensure professional help is on the way.
2. Push Hard & Fast in the Center of the Chest:
- Place your hands in the center of the victim’s chest.
- Push down hard and fast, with a rate of about 100 to 120 compressions per minute. This rhythm is often likened to the beat of the song "Stayin' Alive" by the Bee Gees.
For more detailed information, you can visit HandsOnlyCPR.org.
Why the Change?
The new guidelines are designed to:
- Simplify the Procedure: Making it easier for untrained bystanders to remember and perform.
- Reduce Risk: Protect bystanders from the potential risks associated with providing mouth-to-mouth resuscitation, such as the transmission of serious diseases through the exchange of fluids.
Benefits of Hands-Only CPR
- Increased Participation: Simplified steps encourage more people to act in an emergency without fear of making a mistake.
- Effective: Studies have shown that hands-only CPR can be as effective as conventional CPR in the first few minutes following a cardiac arrest.
- Safety: Reduces the risk of transmitting infections between the rescuer and the victim.
Get Certified for Comprehensive Knowledge
While hands-only CPR is a great tool for untrained bystanders, obtaining full CPR certification provides comprehensive knowledge and skills, including:
- Breathing Techniques: Learn how to provide rescue breaths effectively and safely.
- Child and Infant CPR: Tailored techniques for younger victims, which is especially recommended for new parents and caretakers.
- Automated External Defibrillator (AED) Use: Training on how to use AEDs, which can significantly increase survival rates during cardiac emergencies.
Where to Get Certified:
- Local Classes: Many community centers, hospitals, and organizations like the Red Cross offer CPR certification courses.
- Online Courses: Some organizations provide online courses combined with in-person practice sessions.
Conclusion
While having full CPR certification is ideal, the new hands-only CPR guidelines make it possible for anyone to take immediate action during a cardiac emergency. By following the simple steps of calling 911 and pushing hard and fast in the center of the chest, you can make a critical difference in saving a life.
