CPR for person over 8 years
Alternative names:
rescue breathing, chest compressions - for adults; resuscitation,
cardiopulmonary - for adults
Definition:
CPR is a combination
of rescue breathing (which provides oxygen to the victim's
lungs) and chest compressions (which keep the victim's heart
circulating oxygenated blood).
Considerations:
CPR can be lifesaving,
but it is best performed by those who have been trained in
a CPR course. The procedures described here are not a substitute
for CPR training.
Time is very important when dealing with an unconscious
person who is not breathing. Death can occur in 8 to 10 minutes
and brain death begins after 4 to 6 minutes without oxygen.
Common causes:
The indication for CPR is cardiopulmonary arrest, a combination
of 2 life-threatening conditions: absence of breathing and
no heartbeat.
Updated Date: 02/09/00
Updated By:J. Gordon Lambert, MD, Associate Medical Director,
Utah Health Informatics and adam.com
editorial
|
