Final answer:
CPR technique differs for adults, children, and infants primarily in the method of performing chest compressions. Adults require two-handed compressions, while one hand is used for children, and two fingers for infants. Proper training is crucial as incorrect technique can cause serious injury, and CPR should always be performed after a person has been removed from the water.
Step-by-step explanation:
Differences in CPR for Adults, Children, and Infants
Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is a lifesaving technique useful in many emergencies, including a heart attack or near drowning, in which someone's breathing or heartbeat has stopped. While the basic principles of CPR are the same, there are vital differences when performing CPR on adults, children, and infants. It's important to note that proper training is essential, as incorrect CPR can cause severe damage, such as broken ribs or a damaged liver if the hands are placed too low on the sternum. CPR involves chest compressions at least 5 cm deep at a rate of 100 compressions per minute, which are crucial for maintaining blood flow, especially to the brain. For adults, you would use two hands for compressions, while for children, you typically use one hand, and for infants, you would use two fingers. Additionally, for infants, the technique includes careful positioning due to their smaller size and fragility.
Rescuers should be certified in CPR and preferably, receive routine recertification to stay updated on techniques that can differ significantly depending on the age of the patient. Organizations such as the American Red Cross offer CPR courses at various locations, including colleges and hospitals. Moreover, in cases such as drowning, it is critical to extract the person from the water before commencing CPR, as CPR is ineffective in the water. For children or infants submerged in cold water, immediate CPR after rescue might be more successful due to the slower metabolism and the protective effects of cold on the brain.