Thousands of people die every year from cardiac arrest. Many of those are because the person did not receive CPR.
CPR is an essential skill for everyone to have in their arsenal. Something can happen to anyone at any moment.
With that in mind, be sure to familiarize yourself with these common beginner errors with CPR so that you may avoid them.
1. Not Checking for a Pulse
Not studying for a pulse gives the potential for wasting valuable time with someone who may not need CPR and possibly causing harm to an already conscious person. To avoid these errors, one should check for a pulse before initiating chest compressions and following the standard procedures for CPR.
2. CPR Blunders
To avoid blunders, assess the scene for potential risks and follow the ABC (Airway, Breathing, and Circulation) rule. Ensure you are appropriately trained in accurate and up-to-date CPR techniques and avoid cutting corners.
Ensure you follow the correct ratio of chest compressions to rescue breaths. Seek clarification on any areas of uncertainty, and practice periodically. It is to ensure techniques and skills remain fresh in your memory.
3. Not Rescuing
By not beginning direct, physical contact with a person needing resuscitation, you waste time that the person may not have. To effectively avoid this error, be sure to begin CPR as soon as possible, even if there is someone else present who is more experienced with the procedure.
Additionally, remain focused on the procedure and ask questions if needed. Utilizing an AED and giving appropriate chest compressions should not be overlooked.
4. Neglecting Rescue Breaths
Giving rescue breaths should be done after every 30 compressions on the chest. Failing to provide rescue breaths results in a decreased chance of resuscitation because the trunk is not filled with oxygen-rich air.
Therefore, it is essential to know when you should administer rescue breaths. A few helpful tips to remember are to think of 30 compressions followed by two rescue breaths and count out loud for both.
5. Breathing Unsafely
It is essential to ensure that you are forming a seal and pushing hard enough when pushing on the chest during chest compressions, as inadequate pressure can decrease the amount of oxygen it takes to the brain.
Furthermore, ensure you give two full seconds of each breath when giving two rescue breaths. Too many or too few breaths can result in incorrect patient ventilation, further decreasing the oxygen supply needed for vital life functions.
6. Not Doing Chest Compressions
Chest compressions are an essential part of CPR and are meant to keep the blood and oxygen circulating to the vital organs while emergency responders arrive at the scene. To avoid this common mistake and perform CPR effectively, start by locating the chest, place the heel of one hand on the sternum, place your other hand on top of the first, and check the CPR compression rate.
To avoid common errors, schedule CPR training classes to learn practical skills; visit https://cprcertificationnow.com/products/bloodborne-pathogens-certification-online.
Avoid These Beginner Errors With CPR
Common beginner errors with CPR are easily found, but luckily, you can avoid them with careful practice. Attention to proper technique, forming a straight line with the spine, and performing complete compressions are essential to successful CPR. By following these steps, you can confidently perform CPR and help save a life.
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