When performed correctly, Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) can save lives by extending the window of opportunity for victims of cardiac arrest and other related heart conditions. The American Heart Association (AHA) reports that approximately 92,000 lives are saved each year as a result of CPR. Here we’re going to take a look at some of the most common CPR mistakes and why you should avoid them.
Not Tilting Victim’s Head Far Enough Back
One all-too-common mistake beginners make when performing CPR is forgetting to tilt the victim’s head back. This results in a constricted airway that reduces the effectiveness of your ventilations. Before performing CPR, tilt the victim’s head far enough back until his or her chest rises. With the head titled back, the victim’s airways will naturally open to allow in more oxygen.
Not Pinching The Victim’s Nose Shut
When performing CPR, the victim’s nose must be pinched shut to force air into his or her lungs. If the nose is left open, air blown into the victim’s mouth will be directed through the nose. Gently pinch the victim’s nose shut to ensure mouth ventilations force air into the lungs.
Too Many Ventilations and Not Enough Compressions
Another mistake that you’ll want to avoid when performing CPR is making too many ventilations and not enough compressions. According to the American Heart Association (AHA), the universal compression-to-ventilation ratio for CPR is 30:2. That means for every 30 chest compressions you make on a victim, you should only perform 2 mouth ventilations.
Ratios vary depending on the victim, the victim’s condition, and other circumstances. In newborns, for instance, the AHA recommends a compression-to-ventilation ratio of 3:1. If a newborn is suffering from cardiac arrest, a ratio of 15:2 is recommended. Familiarize yourself with the different ratios so you know exactly how many compressions and ventilations to perform.
Not Calling 911
It’s unlikely that CPR alone will restart a victim’s heart; therefore, the person performing CPR — or another bystander — should call 911 immediately to request an ambulance. The purpose of CPR is simply to “delay tissue death” so the victim may receive medical resuscitation (usually through defibrillation).
The average adult can perform full ventilation-compression CPR for about 3-4 minutes before fatigue sets in. Don’t wait until you are already fatigued before calling 911, but instead make the call immediately.
Shallow Compressions
CPR chest compressions must be deep enough to encourage the heart to refill with blood. Unfortunately, many people make the mistake of performing shallow CPR compressions, fearing they will injure the victim by pressing down too heart. Rib fractures are one of the most common injuries associated with CPR, but most cardiac arrest patients would gladly accept a broken rib in exchange for saving their life.