How to Use a CPR Barrier Device

The CPR procedure uses a mixture of artificial breaths and chest compressions to save a patient suffering from cardiac or respiratory arrest. Due to the risk of exposure to infectious disease, many CPR practitioners prefer to use a barrier device while delivering artificial respiration. A CPR barrier device can be used to restrict the airflow in one direction and prevent direct contact between the mouth of the victim and the mouth of his rescuer.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Roll the victim onto his back.

2. Perform a "chin lift" to open the victim's mouth. Push the head backwards so that the mouth hangs open.

3. Look inside the patient's mouth to see if you can see any obstructions. You'll need to make sure the airways are clear before attempting to perform CPR.

4. Position the CPR barrier device over the patient's mouth. CPR barriers come in two types: a single sheet of thin plastic or a larger pear-shaped plastic apparatus that will form a seal around the mouth.

5. Deliver two quick "rescue breaths" by breathing into the CPR barrier.

6. Remove the barrier device.

7. Perform a cycle of chest compressions and ventilations. After 30 chest compressions, replace the barrier device and deliver 2 rescue breaths. Repeat this cycle, in accordance with the specific guidelines detailed by the American Heart Association (see Resources below).

8. Remove the CPR barrier device as soon as the victim shows signs of recovery. It's common for victims to cough or gasp when recovering, so you'll want to give them plenty of space to breathe. In many instances, vomiting occurs.

Tips & Warnings

• Before you use a barrier device to perform CPR, you should send someone to call for help. Get the attention of a bystander and request that they call 911.
• It's possible to purchase portable CPR barrier devices that fit inside of a keychain.
• A CPR barrier device is of no benefit to the person receiving CPR. It's solely designed to protect the person administering CPR. A barrier device does not make the CPR any more or less effective.
• You shouldn't bother using a barrier device when performing CPR on a close friend or family member. The time necessary to locate and use a barrier device will only delay the CPR.
• The lack of a barrier device should never prevent you from performing CPR in an emergency situation. The threat of infectious disease is relatively small, considering the life-saving potential of CPR.

Resources

• Complete CPR guidelines from the American Heart Association

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[jroberts113]

on 5/12/2009 Check some online course some are free and some charge a small fee. Make sure they are nationally accredited and have the most up to date info. I used www.NationalCPRCertification.com and like them.Like I said, there are others, I just happened to like this one.