How to Administer CPR

Ernest H. Rosenbaum, M.D.
Herman Uhley, M.D.
Isadora Rosenbaum
Becky Moore, R.N.

What should you do if the person you're with suddenly stops breathing and has no pulse? If the patient is under medical care but is not terminally ill, you must act immediately by applying the life-saving technique of cardio-pulmonary resuscitation (CPR). CPR is a means of maintaining breathing and blood circulation during a crisis situation in which the patient cannot continue these functions on his own.

Use CPR when a person is unconscious and not breathing, and there is no pulse. Immediately tell any bystanders to call 911.

The CPR Technique

First lay the person on his back on a hard surface; then begin applying the "ABC's" of CPR.

AIRWAY: Tilt the patient's head back to open the airway.

BREATHING: Breathe into the patient's mouth with four quick breaths. Pinch the nose shut while doing this.

CIRCULATION: Check for a pulse at the side of the neck If the pulse is absent, but the patient has a potential for recovery, start the following procedure:

1. Find the pressure point over the heart, which is about one and one half inches above the sternum, or breastbone.

2. Press down on the pressure point with the heel of your palm so that it compresses the chest 1 1/2 to 2 inches. With a smooth, steady rhythm, press down fifteen times within the period of approximately twelve seconds.

3. Now check for a pulse or breathing. If they are both absent, begin the sequence of Breathing and Circulation steps again. CPR must be continued until medical help arrives to take over. It is easier to sustain the rhythm if CPR is performed by two people: one for pulse-taking and heart massage and the other person for mouth-to-mouth resuscitation.

To learn proper techniques and procedures to be followed in special types of emergencies, you should take a certified CPR course, available through your local branch of the Red Cross, your fire department, or a community agency such as the American Heart Association.)

Read How to Deal With Emergencies at Home

Posted in Emergencies, How to Care for Someone at Home, Supportive Homecare