What is Exhaled Air Resuscitation (EAR)

Exhaled Air Resuscitation (EAR) Pronunciation: iks-ˈhāld ˈer ri-ˌsəs-ə-ˈtā-shən

Definition: Exhaled Air Resuscitation (EAR), also known as mouth-to-mouth resuscitation or rescue breathing, is a technique used to provide oxygen to a person who is not breathing or has inadequate breathing. The rescuer breathes into the victim’s mouth, delivering oxygen-rich air from their own lungs to the victim’s lungs, in an attempt to sustain life until further medical help arrives.

Frequently Asked Questions About Exhaled Air Resuscitation

How is Exhaled Air Resuscitation performed?

To perform Exhaled Air Resuscitation:

1. Check for responsiveness and call 911 or your local emergency number if the person is unresponsive.
2. Tilt the victim’s head back and lift the chin to open the airway.
3. Pinch the victim’s nose closed to prevent air from escaping.
4. Take a deep breath and create a seal around the victim’s mouth with your mouth.
5. Deliver a slow, steady breath into the victim’s mouth, watching for the chest to rise.
6. Allow the victim’s chest to fall before delivering another breath.
7. Continue providing rescue breaths at a rate of one breath every 5 to 6 seconds (10-12 breaths per minute) until the person starts breathing on their own or professional help arrives.

When should Exhaled Air Resuscitation be used?

Exhaled Air Resuscitation should be used when a person is unresponsive and not breathing or has inadequate breathing, such as agonal gasps. It is typically used in conjunction with chest compressions as part of CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) for victims of cardiac arrest. However, in some cases, such as drowning or drug overdose, rescue breathing alone may be sufficient to initiate recovery.

Is Exhaled Air Resuscitation the same as CPR?

No, Exhaled Air Resuscitation is not the same as CPR. Exhaled Air Resuscitation focuses on providing rescue breaths to a person who is not breathing, while CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) is a combination of chest compressions and rescue breaths used to circulate oxygen-rich blood to the brain and other vital organs during cardiac arrest. However, Exhaled Air Resuscitation is an essential component of CPR and can be a life-saving intervention on its own in certain situations.