Chest compressions and rhythmic counting filled the entrance of Netcare Linmed on July 17 as Emergency Department (ED) staff observed International CPR Day.

Throughout the morning, more than 130 of the hospital’s security, cleaning and administrative staff, as well as members of the public, filtered through the interactive demonstration area to learn the basics of this vital life-saving technique.

“Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) maintains blood and oxygen flow to vital organs, especially the brain, when the heart stops beating,” said Claudia Robinson, ED unit manager.

“Correct administration of CPR can significantly improve a person’s chances of surviving sudden cardiac arrest.”

The ABC’s of CPR:
• International standards dictate that mouth-to-mouth should no longer be administered as part of CPR. This is to prevent secondary infections for the patient and the first responder. Where possible, an artificial manual breathing unit (Ambu) bag or CPR mouthpiece should be used.

• Children as young as five should be taught CPR. “Life is fast-paced and demanding for parents, and many resort to leaving their children in the care of grandparents,” said Robinson. “It is, therefore, important that children know basic CPR and who to contact in an emergency.”

• Before administering CPR, ensure that the patient is lying on their back on a hard surface.

• Check for a pulse using the index and middle fingers either in the neck just below the jaw line or on the wrist. “Even if you are not sure whether you feel a pulse, start CPR,” said Robinson.

• Call for help. In many cases, CPR is needed because an adult has suffered cardiac arrest or a child or baby is having respiratory problems. Robinson said it is better to call for medical assistance as soon as possible because time is of the essence. “In cases of adults, perform two rounds of CPR before calling for help, but with children and babies, immediately call for assistance before starting CPR.”

• Hand placement. With adults and children, place the heel of the hand in the middle of the chest aligned with the nipples, interlock your fingers and perform deep and rhythmic compressions. “When administering CPR to babies, use only the two index fingers or thumbs,” advises Robinson.

• Count it out. CPR is most effective when maintaining rhythmic compressions. With a smile, Robinson said that the Bee Gees’ Stayin’ Alive offers the ideal tempo.

Thirty compressions per cycle should be administered to adult patients and 15 for children and babies. “Count the compressions out loud, when medical assistance arrives, they will know where you are in the cycle,” she said.

“Most importantly, remain calm and focused.”

BENONI CITY TIMES ASKED: Do you know how to perform CPR?

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