CPR is a vital skill that could save someone’s life in an emergency situation. Knowing how to perform CPR on both adults and children is essential, as the technique can differ based on their age. In this article, we will provide you with easy-to-follow steps on how to perform CPR for adults and children and how to use an AED. Adult CPR Steps Performing CPR on an adult is slightly different than performing CPR on a child. Here are the steps to follow in order to perform CPR on an adult: 1. Check for responsiveness Check if the person is responsive by tapping them lightly on the shoulder and asking if they are okay. If you do not get a response, shout for help immediately and call 911 or ask someone else to do so. 2. Position the person Position the person on their back and tilt their head back slightly to open their airway. 3. Check for breathing Check if the person is breathing by looking for chest movement and listening for sounds of breathing. If the person is not breathing, start CPR. 4. Performing chest compressions Place the heel of your hand on the center of the person’s chest and place your other hand on top of the first. Push down on the chest about 2 inches deep, at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute. 5. Giving rescue breaths Tilt the person’s head back and lift their chin. Pinch their nose shut and give two rescue breaths into their mouth. 6. Continue until help arrives Continue performing CPR until help arrives or the person responds. Child CPR Steps Performing CPR on a child is a little different than performing CPR on an adult. Here are the steps to follow in order to perform CPR on a child: 1. Check for responsiveness Check if the child is responsive by tapping them lightly on the shoulder and asking if they are okay. If you do not get a response, shout for help immediately and call 911 or ask someone else to do so. 2. Position the child Position the child on their back and tilt their head back slightly to open their airway. 3. Check for breathing Check if the child is breathing by looking for chest movement and listening for sounds of breathing. If the child is not breathing, start CPR. 4. Performing chest compressions Use two fingers to perform chest compressions on a child. Press down on the chest about 2 inches deep, at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute. 5. Giving rescue breaths Tilt the child’s head back and lift their chin. Pinch their nose shut and give two rescue breaths into their mouth. 6. Continue until help arrives Continue performing CPR until help arrives or the child responds. Using an AED An AED (Automated External Defibrillator) is a portable device that can deliver an electric shock to the heart in order to restore its normal rhythm. Here are the steps to follow in order to use an AED: 1. Turn on the AED Turn on the AED and follow the instructions provided by the device. 2. Place the pads on the person’s chest Place the pads on the person’s chest as shown in the diagram on the AED. 3. Follow the AED’s instructions The AED will provide you with instructions on when to shock the person and when to perform CPR. 4. Continue until help arrives Continue using the AED and performing CPR until emergency services arrive or the person responds. Conclusion Knowing how to perform CPR and use an AED could save someone’s life in an emergency situation. Remember to always check for responsiveness, position the person, check for breathing, perform chest compressions, give rescue breaths, and use an AED if available. With these simple steps, you could make a difference in someone’s life.
