Last Updated On: November 28, 2024
During an emergency, knowing how to give cardiopulmonary resuscitation and basic first aid can help save a life. But what if you did not have formal training yet? In this blog, we will help break down the basics of performing CPR and first aid without any specialized knowledge.
If you are someone who finds yourself in highly stressful situations, especially during critical situations, Read below to learn simple tips to give CPR and First Aid without training.
CPR is a life-saving technique used in emergencies when a person’s heart stops breathing. It involves pressing on the person’s chest to help pump blood to the brain and other organs of the body. It is used during heart attacks, drowning, and other emergencies. Anyone can learn CPR, as it really helps during emergencies.
The common signs must be looked out for to act confidently during emergencies . Here are some of them:
Unresponsiveness: If someone is unconscious and doesn’t respond to loud sounds, touch, or other stimuli.
No breathing or gasping: If the person isn’t breathing or is only gasping, it may signal a serious issue requiring CPR.
Severe Bleeding: Heavy or uncontrolled bleeding that doesn’t stop with pressure is an emergency needing immediate care.
Choking or Difficulty Breathing: If someone is clutching their throat or struggling to breathe, they may need first aid assistance.
Chest Pain or Pressure: Sudden chest pain, pressure, or discomfort can be a warning sign of a heart issue, often requiring CPR if the person collapses.
Use CPR when an adult is not breathing or when they are gasping occasionally, and when they are not responding to questions or taps on the shoulder. In children and infants, use CPR when they are not breathing well and not responding. Check the surrounding area and then perform the CPR procedures as mentioned below:
The first step should be to call emergency services, as trained emergency responders can provide the best care. So tell them your location and be accurate about it. The operator may provide you guidance on continuing CPR effectively. If you start CPR right after calling, it ensures that professional help is on the way.
Place your ear close to the person’s mouth and listen for 10 seconds. If you do not hear anything, start CPR. If you hear breathing but the person is unconscious, then do not perform CPR. Place them in a recovery position. Keep monitoring their breathing and perform CPR if they stop breathing.
Place one hand on top of the other in the center of the chest, above the sternum, between the nipples. This spot allows you to apply pressure directly over the heat. It increases the effectiveness of each compression. So you must ensure the proper hand placement to apply proper force and circulate blood.
Press down about 2 inches into the chest at a steady rate of 100–120 beats per minute. Remember the depth well, as it is important in effectively pumping blood through the body. This helps keep the vital organs supplied with oxygen. Thus, rhythm ensures a continuous flow and helps professionals when they arrive.
Repeat the cycle of 30 chest compressions and two rescue breaths till the person starts breathing again. If an AED arrives, keep performing CPR until you set the machine up.
Use CPR when an adult is not breathing at all. For an infant or a child, use CPR when they are not breathing normally. Use CPR if the adult or child is not responding when you talk to them or tap them.
If someone is not breathing, give CPR to ensure that oxygen-rich blood reaches the brain. This is crucial, as without oxygen, you can sustain permanent damage to the brain or die in just 8 minutes. A person might need CPR if they stop breathing due to:
First aid is the immediate help given to someone who is injured or suddenly becomes ill. The treatment covers basic treatments to reduce pain that prevent the situation from worsening. Common steps include cleaning wounds, stopping bleeding, and helping someone who is choking or struggling to breathe. First aid helps keep a person safe and stable in an emergency. Anyone can learn first aid skills.
During an emergency, basic first aid can help save lives. Trained professionals offer the best level of care. But do not worry if you do not have any training in first aid yet. Here are some easy steps of emergency response for beginners:
The first thing to do is to stay calm. Do not panic, as it can make situations worse. Assess the situation and call emergency services. When you stay calm, it reassures the injured person that you are making them feel safer.
Look around and check if there are no immediate dangers, such as broken glass, fires, and other hazards. If possible, move to a safer location. Recognize dangers to prevent any additional injuries. Safety is the top priority, so make sure you and the injured person are safe.
If the person is bleeding heavily, press a clean cloth or your hand directly on the wound to control blood loss. Apply pressure to slow down bleeding and give them a better chance while you wait for medical help. Keep pressing until the bleeding stops, and do not lift the cloth, as it can worsen the bleeding. If you have cloth, it can help absorb blood and help you to maintain steady pressure.
Check if the person is breathing and observe the chest or listen for breaths. If they are struggling, help them to sit up or turn them on their side if unconscious. This can keep their airways open. If they stop breathing, chest compressions can help circulate blood. Press down firmly on their chest at a rhythm of 100-120 beats per minute.
Keep the person calm and offer reassurance. It can reduce their shock and help stabilize them down. Cover them with a blanket or jacket and keep them warm. Encourage them to stay still to prevent any injury.
Yes, taking CPR and first aid training is highly recommended. Formal training prepares you to confidently respond during emergencies. Certified courses teach all key techniques to help you understand the proper steps to take in various situations. So with the right training, you will be better prepared to act confidently.
You can learn basic life-saving techniques through recognized organizations that offer CPR and first aid courses. These programs are available online and in person to prepare you well for emergencies. Online classes are affordable, convenient, and more flexible.
CPR and First Aid without training may feel overwhelming, but basic knowledge and a calm mind can help. During emergencies, simply call 911, check for breathing, and perform test compressions to keep a life breathing. Stay calm and follow these CPR procedure steps to boost the survival chances. However, for effective performance and timely help, you must seek formal training. It will enhance your skills and make you confident.
Read More:
1. Normal Respiratory Rate in Adults: What You Need to Know
