How to Save a Life Without CPR

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation, more commonly known as CPR, is an extremely useful skill to have. But not everyone knows CPR, and even those who have learned the technique may not remember how to use it. Fortunately, there are other ways to intervene -- and possibly save a life -- when someone is in crisis. Read the steps below and find out how to save a life even if you don't know CPR.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. CALL 911. Before starting any life-saving procedures yourself, call 911. Once you know the pros are on the way, you can try to help the person in crisis yourself. If you are capable, the 911 operator may guide you through the steps to take to keep the victim alive until professional help arrives.

2. CARRY ASPIRIN. If it seems apparent that the person you are trying to help is having a heart attack, the 911 operator may recommend that you give that person an aspirin. Aspirin helps prevent the recurrence of heart attacks and may even help stop a heart attack in progress. But aspirin may not be advised if the person is having a stroke. So carry aspirin, but rely on the 911 operator to advise you whether to give one or not.

3. PERFORM THE HEIMLICH MANEUVER. If a person is choking, you can save his life be performing a simple procedure called the Heimlich maneuver. See "Resources" below for a link to an article that will teach you how to perform this life-saving technique.

4. ELEVATE LEGS. If the stricken person is lying down but not injured, ask the 911 operator if it would be OK to elevate his legs. If she agrees, bend down, pick up his feet and raise his legs waist-high. This simple action increases blood return to the heart and lungs, where it's needed to restore a spontaneous heartbeat. This will make CPR much more effective once it's started.

Tips & Warnings

• This article is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice.

Resources

• Heimlich Maneuver

[Magentaslb]

on 11/12/2009 Really great advice... I might add a step 5: don't panic! 5*s

[Merriment]

on 11/11/2009 Great additional methods to use to help save a life, even if you don't know CPR.