CPR, or cardiopulmonary resuscitation, is a lifesaving technique used to revive someone who has stopped breathing or whose heart has stopped beating. CPR involves compressing the chest and providing rescue breaths to the victim. When performed correctly, CPR can double or even triple a person’s chance of survival.
There are several reasons why everyone should know CPR. First and foremost, CPR can save lives. In many cases, it is the only thing that stands between life and death for a person who has suffered a cardiac arrest. Additionally, CPR is easy to learn and doesn’t require any special equipment. It can be performed by anyone, regardless of age or experience level. CPR is an essential skill, and everyone should consider seeking CPR training.
CPR is an essential life-saving skill that everyone should know. It can be the difference between life and death in an emergency situation. Keep reading to learn why everyone should know CPR.
Bystander CPR can save lives
The reason bystander CPR is so important is that intervention can double or even triple a victim’s chance of survival. Studies have shown that when bystanders provide CPR, the victim’s chance of survival increases substantially. The majority of people who suffer a cardiac arrest are in a public setting away from a hospital. This means that people at grocery stores, parks, shopping malls, and other places should be prepared for a potential emergency at all times. When someone’s heart has stopped beating, every second counts. Additionally, even if emergency responders are nearby, it may still take a little while for them to arrive and start resuscitation efforts. That’s where bystanders come in and can provide chest compressions until emergency responders arrive or until an AED can be used.
Performing CPR is Vital
As discussed, CPR is a critical skill that can mean the difference between life and death. Unfortunately, recent studies suggest that less than half of those who suffer from a cardiac event receive any type of CPR assistance from bystanders. When these types of situations arise, there is usually no bystander available who is certified in CPR, or there is an aspect of fear involved, causing those around to hesitate in administering these critical skills. Becoming trained in CPR and first aid will give you the skills and confidence needed to administer aid and help alleviate any fear that you might have. In many cases, cardiac arrest victims have a greater chance of survival if CPR is properly administered quickly.
CPR can help preserve brain function
Another important reason to know CPR is that it can help prevent brain death in victims of cardiac arrest. When oxygen levels in the blood drop suddenly during cardiac arrest or other cardiac events, the brain begins to suffer from a lack of oxygen. If left untreated, this may lead to permanent brain damage or death. However, if CPR is started soon after cardiac arrest occurs, it will help keep the victim’s blood flowing and their oxygen levels high enough to prevent serious brain damage. Administering CPR quickly can greatly improve a victim’s chances of recovery.
When it comes to emergency situations, every second counts. This is especially true if someone is in cardiac arrest. In these situations, it is crucial that CPR is administered as quickly as possible. This is why it is important for as many people as possible to be trained in CPR. If an emergency situation arises while you are in a restaurant, crowded shopping mall, or grocery store, having more than one person who is adequately trained in CPR can be beneficial. CPR can save lives and prevent brain damage.