External Chest Compressions

External Chest Compressions Pronunciation: Ek-ster-nl Chest Kuhm-pre-shuns

Definition: External chest compressions, also known as chest compressions, are a crucial component of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). It involves applying rhythmic pressure to the chest to help circulate blood to vital organs when the heart is unable to do so effectively.

What are External Chest Compressions?

Overview: External chest compressions are a fundamental technique used in CPR to maintain blood flow to the brain and other organs during cardiac arrest. They are performed in conjunction with rescue breaths to provide artificial circulation when the heart has stopped or is not pumping adequately.

Key Facts About External Chest Compressions:

1. External chest compressions are a critical component of CPR, involving rhythmic pressure on the chest to maintain blood flow during cardiac arrest.
2. Proper technique for external chest compressions includes compressing the chest at least 2 inches (5 centimeters) deep at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute.
3. High-quality chest compressions are essential for effective CPR and can significantly increase the chances of survival for someone in cardiac arrest.

Understanding Chest Compressions

Chest Compression Technique

To perform external chest compressions, the rescuer places the heel of one hand on the center of the victim’s chest, between the nipples, and interlocks the other hand on top.
The rescuer then positions their body directly over the victim, with their arms straight and shoulders directly above their hands.
They push down hard and fast, compressing the chest at least 2 inches (5 centimeters) deep in adults and at a rate of around 100-120 compressions per minute.
After each compression, the rescuer allows the chest to fully recoil, allowing the heart to refill with blood.

Purpose of Chest Compressions

External chest compressions are vital in CPR as they help maintain blood flow to vital organs, especially the brain, during cardiac arrest.
By compressing the chest, blood is squeezed out of the heart and circulated to the body, delivering oxygen to tissues and removing waste products.
Chest compressions alone may sustain a person’s life until advanced medical help, such as defibrillation or advanced cardiac life support, can be provided.

Importance of High-Quality CPR

High-quality CPR involves performing effective and consistent chest compressions.
It is essential to follow the recommended compression depth, rate, and recoil, as improper technique can reduce the effectiveness of CPR.
High-quality chest compressions, when combined with rescue breaths and appropriate care, can significantly increase the chances of survival for someone experiencing cardiac arrest.

Frequently Asked Questions about External Chest Compressions:

Can I cause harm by performing chest compressions too forcefully?

While it’s important to apply adequate pressure during chest compressions, excessive force can lead to rib fractures or other injuries. However, it is generally better to err on the side of providing effective compressions rather than being too gentle.

Should I perform chest compressions on a child differently than on an adult?

Yes, the technique for performing chest compressions on children and infants differs from that for adults. The depth and rate of compressions are adjusted based on the victim’s age and size. For infants, two fingers are used instead of the hands.

What if I’m not trained in CPR? Can I still perform chest compressions?

Even without formal CPR training, you can still attempt chest compressions if you witness someone experiencing cardiac arrest. Push hard and fast on the center of their chest until help arrives. However, it is highly recommended to seek CPR certification for proper training in life-saving techniques.