CPR and AED Training Notes

Overview

• CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation): A life-saving technique used when someone's heart stops beating.
• AED (Automated External Defibrillator): A device used to shock the heart back into rhythm.
• Focus on providing effective CPR compressions and using an AED can significantly improve survival chances.

CPR Basics

Adult CPR

• Definition: Adult is anyone who has gone through or is going through puberty.
• Check Responsiveness: Tap and ask loudly if they are okay.
• Compressions:
  • Move clothes away.
  • Use the heel of one hand on the lower half of the breastbone, the other hand on top.
  • Push straight down at least 2 inches.
  • Compressions should be at least 100 per minute.
  • Allow the chest to return to its normal position after each compression.
  • Switch rescuers every 2 minutes if possible.

Giving Breaths

• Open Airway: Tilt head back and lift chin.
• Give Breaths:
  • Pinch nose, cover their mouth with yours, give two 1-second breaths.
  • Watch for chest rise.
  • Do not interrupt compressions for more than 10 seconds.

Using a Mask

• Mask Placement:
  • Place over mouth and nose.
  • Make a good seal.
  • Give two breaths while watching for chest rise.

AED Usage

• Turn on AED: Push the button or lift the lid.
• Attach Pads: Follow the diagrams on the pads.
• Follow Prompts: AED will instruct you on next steps, including delivering a shock if needed.

Child CPR

• Definition: Child is older than 1 year and hasn't reached puberty.
• Compressions:
  • May use one hand.
  • Push down about 2 inches.
• Breaths: Same as for adults, but less air may be needed.
• AED Use:
  • Special child pads or settings might be needed.
• Procedure for CPR: Give 5 sets of 30 compressions and 2 breaths before calling for help if alone.

Infant CPR

• Definition: Infant is younger than 1 year old.
• Compressions:
  • Use two fingers.
  • Push down about 1.5 inches.
• Breaths:
  • Cover the infant's mouth and nose with your mouth.
  • Use gentle breaths, watching for chest rise.

Choking Procedures

Child

• Signs of Severe Choking: Cannot breathe or makes no sound.
• Procedure:
  • Stand or kneel behind the child.
  • Give abdominal thrusts (Heimlich maneuver).

Infant

• Signs of Severe Choking: Cannot breathe or make sounds.
• Procedure:
  • Alternate between 5 back slaps and 5 chest thrusts until the object is removed or the infant becomes unresponsive.

Important Considerations

• Scene Safety: Ensure the area is safe before assisting.
• Emergency Response: Always call 911 as soon as possible.
• Switching Rescuers: If another trained rescuer is present, switch every 2 minutes.

Conclusion

• Continued practice is crucial to maintain skills.
• These skills can significantly impact survival outcomes in cardiac emergencies.