Final answer:
CPR's main purpose is to maintain vital blood flow during cardiac arrest, buying time until the heart restarts or emergency services arrive. Proper technique is crucial to avoid injury, and professional training is highly recommended for the effective administration of this life-saving procedure.
Step-by-step explanation:
The purpose of Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) is to maintain the flow of blood to the brain and other vital organs if the heart stops, a scenario known as cardiac arrest. Cardiac arrest is a medical emergency requiring immediate intervention. By applying pressure to the sternum in the correct manner, the blood within the heart can be manually compressed, pushing it into the pulmonary and systemic circuits, thereby sustaining life until professional medical help can take over or the heart resumes beating on its own. However, performing CPR without proper training can lead to serious injuries like broken ribs, sternum, or damage to the liver if the hands are placed too low on the sternum. Hence, people must receive proper CPR training from certified institutions such as colleges, hospitals, or the American Red Cross and are routinely recertified. Most training courses also include practice on mannequins to ensure the correct technique is mastered.