Question

When beginning chest compressions on a victim, why do you remove clothing covering the victim's chest? a) To expose the victim's chest for aesthetics b) To keep the victim warm c) To facilitate better adherence of AED pads d) To prevent the rescuer from touching the victim's chest

Answer 1

Clothing on a victim's chest is removed before CPR to allow better adherence of AED pads for defibrillation. The aim of chest compressions in CPR is to keep the blood flow active to the vital organs, especially the brain. Special training is required to ensure proper technique and to prevent potential injuries from incorrect procedures.

Step-by-step explanation:

The main reason for removing clothing covering a victim's chest prior to beginning chest compressions or cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is to facilitate better adherence of AED pads. Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) are used when someone is in cardiac arrest and the device needs skin contact to analyze the heart rhythm and administer the necessary shock. Without removing clothing, it may obstruct the proper placement of AED pads, affecting the effectiveness of the rescue attempt and the victim's chance of survival.

Chest compressions during CPR are critical as they help push the blood within the heart into the pulmonary and systemic circuits, including the brain, where a loss of blood flow can lead to irreversible damage and death of neurons within minutes. They are generally performed at a rate of 100 compressions per minute, which is the beat of the song 'Staying Alive' by the Bee Gees.

Proper CPR training is essential as incorrect or overzealous attempts can result in further damage such as broken ribs or a broken sternum. Hence even in times of immediate need, such as drowning, the first priority should be to bring the victim to a stable ground where effective CPR can be administered.

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