As part of my yearly work training, I learn CPR. Recently, the instructors discussed how the American Heart Association has been de-emphasizing the mouth-to-mouth part of CPR. First, it adds a layer of complexity to CPR that may discourage people from even attempting it. More important, research had been showing that the bulk of the benefit from CPR came from chest compressions, which keeps the blood flowing through the body (and especially the brain).
According to this article, the American Heart Association is officially trending in this direction. Of course, the first step - always - is to get someone to call 911. Then, start compressions, even if you don't know mouth-to-mouth:
If you don't know how to give mouth-to-mouth, do not refrain from giving Hands-Only CPR as you will be significantly improving the person's chances of survival, Sayre said. In other words, even if you are not trained, do it as you may contribute towards saving a life.
Sayre added "Many times people nearby don't help because they're afraid that they will hurt the victim and aren't confident in what they're doing. We want people to know that they can help many victims, just by calling 9-1-1 and doing chest compressions. Don't be afraid to try it. We are sure many lives will be saved if the public does Hands-Only CPR for adult victims of sudden cardiac arrest."
There are other recommendations, including using breathes when the person is unconscious due to a drug overdose or drowning. Also, don't use standard chest compressions for kids and infants. Still some rules, but not nearly as complicated as it used to be.
As part of my yearly work training, I learn CPR. Recently, the instructors discussed how the American Heart Association has been de-emphasizing the mouth-to-mouth part of CPR. First, it adds a layer of complexity to CPR that may discourage people from even attempting it. More important, research had been showing that the bulk of the benefit from CPR came from chest compressions, which keeps the blood flowing through the body (and especially the brain).
According to this article, the American Heart Association is officially trending in this direction. Of course, the first step - always - is to get someone to call 911. Then, start compressions, even if you don't know mouth-to-mouth:
There are other recommendations, including using breathes when the person is unconscious due to a drug overdose or drowning. Also, don't use standard chest compressions for kids and infants. Still some rules, but not nearly as complicated as it used to be.