A Step-By-Step Guide To Performing CPR

Common Mistakes

One of the most common mistakes CPR providers make is forgetting to call for help before beginning CPR. Most individuals are unable to give CPR for more than two minutes at a time, and calling for help first means paramedics can arrive more quickly to take over. Additionally, some providers may use improper CPR techniques. For example, they may give compressions that are not deep enough, and they might give compressions too rapidly. They could also forget to keep their elbows straight while administering compressions. Although CPR advice used to include rescue breaths, current guidelines now recommend that providers prioritize continuous chest compressions instead. Rescue breaths are no longer recommended when administering CPR to adults, particularly if the provider is a novice or has not been certified in CPR.

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Don't Stop Until Paramedics Take Over

In most cases, healthcare experts recommend that individuals administering CPR don't stop until paramedics take over. Administering CPR is very tiring, and it is helpful if a second CPR provider is available to assist. It can sometimes take thirty to ninety minutes of continuous CPR for the patient to be successfully revived, and long resuscitation times are associated with improvements in brain function in cases where the victim survives. In urban areas, paramedics will generally arrive within five to ten minutes of receiving an emergency call. However, in rural areas, it could take thirty minutes or more for emergency personnel to arrive. Once paramedics arrive, CPR providers should continue giving compressions until the medical team asks them to stop. CPR should also be stopped if the patient begins exhibiting obvious signs of life. For example, CPR should be discontinued if the patient grimaces, lifts their head, or moves an arm or leg. If the patient blinks, looks around, and focuses their eyes on objects, it is safe to stop CPR as well.