How to Give an Adult CPR
Knowing CPR is critical. It keeps oxygenated blood flowing to the brain and heart to help keep a person alive, but usually will not restart her heart. CPR for children and adults is different.
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Instructions
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CPR for an Adult
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1
Check for unresponsiveness. Shake the person, call out to him, rub your knuckles hard against his sternum. If unresponsive, continue to step 2.
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2
Direct someone to call 911. If alone, call 911 before you do anything else.
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3
Open the airway and check for breathing. Look, listen and feel for normal breathing. If there is no sign of breathing, give two slow breaths, about 2 seconds for each. Watch to see if the chest rises and falls to ensure the air reaches the lungs.
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4
Check for signs of circulation by feeling for a pulse on the neck or wrist.
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5
Begin chest compression if there are no signs of circulation. Locate the sternum and do 15 chest compressions at a rate of 100 per minute.
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6
Give two more deep, slow breaths.
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7
Repeat 15 chest compressions, followed by two slow breaths until medical help arrives.
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8
If the victim recovers, place in a recovery position and monitor until medical help arrives.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Be sure the victim is on a solid surface when beginning chest compressions. If not, the compressions will not work. If you do not see the chest rise and fall, your breaths may not be entering her lungs. Adjust the head position and try again. Using a mask can prevent the spread of germs. If another rescuer is available, take turns as you will quickly become exhausted doing CPR alone.
Always continue CPR until medical help arrives. Only enter the scene to give CPR if you feel it is safe. Be sure that you have CPR training before you treat an adult.
