CPR Ready Reference
Note: The Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada recommends these guidelines for CPR.
CPR Basics What to do Recommendations for: Adults and older children who have reached puberty Young children until the age of puberty Babies younger than 1 year When to call for emergency help
Call before starting CPR.
Do CPR for 5 cycles, then call for help. NOTE: If you see a child collapse, call for help first and then start CPR.
Do CPR for 5 cycles, then call for help. NOTE: If you see a child collapse, call for help first and then start CPR.
If the person is not breathing, start rescue breaths.
Give 2 breaths.
Give 2 breaths.
Give 2 breaths.
If the person does not breathe or move after you give 2 rescue breaths, check for a pulse, and be ready to start chest compressions.
Put the heel of one hand on the centre of the person's chest between the nipples. Place the other hand on top and lace the fingers together. (See an illustration of hand placement for chest compressions
.)
Put the heel of one hand on the centre of the child's chest between the nipples. For a larger child, you may need to use both hands as you would for an adult.
Place two fingers on the breastbone just below the nipple line. (See an illustration of hand placement for chest compressions on a baby
How do you give chest compressions?
Use the heel of one hand with the other hand stacked on top of it. Lace your fingers together.
Use the heel of one hand. If you need more force for a larger child, use both hands as you would for an adult.
Use two fingers.
How fast should you do compressions?
Do about 2 compressions per second.
Do about 2 compressions per second.
Do about 2 compressions per second.
How far down should you press the chest?
Press the chest down 4 to 5 cm (1.5 to 2 in.).
Press chest down one-third to one-half its depth.
Press chest down one-third to one-half its depth.
How many compressions and breaths do you give?
30 compressions, 2 breaths. Repeat this 30/2 cycle until help arrives or the person breathes on his or her own.
30 compressions, 2 breaths. Repeat this 30/2 cycle until help arrives or the child breathes on his or her own.
30 compressions, 2 breaths. Repeat this 30/2 cycle until help arrives or the child breathes on his or her own.
Using an automated external defibrillator (AED)
Automated external defibrillators (AEDs) are now often found in public buildings. They are usually located in a visible area. Each AED gives you instructions for that machine. Before using an AED, be sure to follow all the steps for rescue breathing and CPR. Do not delay rescue breathing and CPR to find an AED. To use an AED, place it next to the person, turn it on, and follow the commands. The AED will tell you to continue CPR and when to check again for a heart rhythm.
| Author: | Jan Nissl, RN, BS | Last Updated: April 24, 2007 |
| Medical Review: | Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine Andrew Swan, MD, CCFP, FCFP - Family Medicine | |
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