subject: Common Mistakes When Performing Cpr [print this page] When performing CPR, timing is crucialWhen performing CPR, timing is crucial. Rescue breathing and/or chest compressions must be started immediately if there is no pulse or the person stops breathing. Performing CPR correctly is vital to the injured person's survival.
This is why there are strict requirements for CPR training and certification for emergency responders, medical personnel and others. Here are a few common mistakes made when performing CPR and tips for performing it correctly.
1. Not tapping or attempting to wake an unresponsive person. The first thing to do in assessing the situation is to determine if the person needs aid or is merely sleeping. It is a rude awakening to suddenly wake up and find someone breathing into your mouth. The person may have just fallen asleep from too much alcohol or medication.
2. Not listening for breathing sounds. If the person is breathing then you would not perform rescue breathing on him or her. In some cases, breathing sounds may be faint or barely audible.
3. Not tilting the head far back enough to open the airway. If the head and chin are not in proper alignment it cuts off the air way instead of opening it. You will not be able to blow air into the lungs.
4. Starting CPR without asking someone to call 911 for help. It may take several minutes for help to arrive and you cannot stop CPR once you have started unless the person starts breathing on their own or until help arrives to take over. If you are doing rescue breathing and chest compression you will tire out quickly.
5. Not checking again for breathing or a pulse after two minutes of CPR. If the person has started breathing or has a pulse, you can discontinue CPR since they have been resuscitated.
Performing CPR The Right Way
1. Assess the situation quickly and ask someone nearby to call 911 for help. In case of traffic delays, emergency vehicles may take several minutes to arrive.
2. Tap the person on the shoulder or otherwise try to get them to respond. If there is no response to attempts to wake the person, then check to see if he or she is breathing.
3. Put your ear to the victim's chest and listen for breathing sounds. If no breathing sounds are heard, then proceed with rescue breathing using a mask if you have one.
4. Tilt the head back and lift the chin with two fingers placed under the jaw bone. This opens the person's airway allowing the air to flow through to inflate the lungs. Turn your head to make sure you see the chest rise and fall with each breath.
CPR performed the right way can save a person's life by keeping the heart and brain alive while waiting for help to arrive. The longer a person goes without oxygen, the more likely they are to have permanent brain damage. Three to five minutes are the most a human brain can live without oxygen before permanent brain damage, coma or death occurs.
