Title: External cardiac massage or cardio pulmonary resuscitation (CPR)
Course: Level 3 - First Aid > Section: Provision of First Aid service and referral

The aim of CPR is to compress the heart b/n sternum and the back bone (spine) thus literally squeezing blood out of it.

Steps:

- Lay the causality on a firm flat surface (see Figure, below).
- Kneel close to the side at right angles to him and alongside his/her chest.
- Press the lower third of the sternum with the heels of your hands.
- Check the carotid pulse every few minutes.
- Chest compression - ventilation 30: 2, for 5 cycles.

Figure 25: External cardiac compression

- After five cycles of compressions and six cycles of ventilations (30:2) and check for the return of carotid pulse and spontaneous breathing

According to the Finding of the Reassessment (After 2 Minutes):

- If there is pulse- place in the recovery position and monitor vital signs until Emergency Medical staff (EMS) arrives.
- If there is pulse but no breathing- continue rescue breathing every 5- 6 seconds (10-12 breaths).
- Recheck pulse every 2 minutes, if no pulse or breathing- continue CPR 30:2 until provider arrives.

Repeat A-B-C to 5 Cycles of Compression and Six Cycles of Breathing. (150:12)

- For children, enough pressure is obtained by using the heel of only one hand (see Figure 26).
- For babies, use only two fingers. When the casualty starts to breathe by himself, put him in a recovery position (see Figure 27).

Fig. 26. External cardiac compression for an infant.

Fig. 27. Recovery position.