Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation Tips

There is a very good chance that you know someone with heart disease. It is also quite cpr likely that you will personally witness a heart attack in your lifetime. Scientific research has shown that without Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), a person with a severe heart attack has little chance of survival. The same studies show that if you perform CPR until a properly equipped team from your local Emergency Medical Service arrives, that person's chance of survival can increase immensely!

While CPR is only indicated in the most severe type of heart attack, there can be a tremendous payoff in learning this life-saving procedure.

Last Updated - 20th September 2005

Do -you- know what to do for a heart attack or choking victim?

Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation is a simple skill that is easily learned in a one session class. In CPR, mouth-to-mouth breathing and rhythmic chest compressions are used to supply oxygen to the brain and other vital organs of a person whose heart has stopped pumping. This can buy the precious time necessary for provision of Advanced Life Support measures by highly skilled Paramedics. Worldwide, CPR from bystanders is credited with making the difference between life and death.

The sooner CPR is started, the greater the chances for survival. Unfortunately, many people who have been trained in CPR are reluctant to administer it for fear of doing it wrong. It is important to remember that when indicated: Good CPR is better than bad CPR, but even bad CPR is a million times -better- than no CPR at all!

Many people express a concern about the risk of HIV / AIDS and other infectious diseases when performing mouth-to-mouth resuscitation. This is an understandable concern which has to be weighed in each case individually. Most layperson CPR however, is performed on a close friend or loved one. The background health history and risk factors will usually be known to the rescuer.

CPR can not only be used when heart attacks strike, but may save victims of drowning, electrocution, suffocation and drug overdose. CPR not only saves lives, but provides peace of mind during and after an emergency. People often feel helpless when they witness a heart attack, but with CPR training, you will know exactly what to do. Regardless of the outcome, you will know that every possible measure had been taken to assist the person in need. You will likely find this reassuring during what may be an otherwise difficult time.

It's simple to learn more about American Red Cross CPR and First Aid Training. The cost is minimal, and most training can be completed in a single session!

You can readily find American Red Cross Chapter or American Heart Association Affiliate by clicking on one of the logos below...

www.redcross.org

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