Final answer:
The current CPR guidelines recommend chest compressions at 100-120 per minute, rescue breaths at a ratio of 30 compressions to 2 breaths, and the use of an AED if available. Performing CPR continues until professional help arrives or the individual regains a pulse. Proper training for CPR and AED usage is essential to avoid injury and increase survival chances.
Step-by-step explanation:
The current CPR guidelines for all age groups involve several key steps that are crucial in the attempt to save a life when a person's heart has stopped. The guidelines suggest:
- Perform chest compressions at a depth of at least 5 cm (2 inches) for adults and at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute. This rate corresponds with the beat of the song “Staying Alive” by the Bee Gees, which can be a helpful guide for rhythm.
- To give rescue breaths at a ratio of 30 compressions to 2 breaths, once you are trained and it’s safe to do so.
- Use an AED (Automated External Defibrillator) if one is available, as these devices can provide crucial support in the initial minutes of cardiac arrest by analyzing the heart’s rhythm and delivering a shock if necessary.
It is important to note that CPR should be continued until the individual regains a pulse or professional medical personnel take over. Incorrect application of CPR can cause injury, so proper training is essential. Courses for CPR certification are widely available from organizations like the American Red Cross. Using an AED along with CPR increases the chances of survival, and many public places now equip AEDs for emergency use.