CPR & AED Refresher Course with Nurse Eunice [Adult, Child, and Infant]

Introduction

This tutorial provides a comprehensive refresher on CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) and AED (Automated External Defibrillator) techniques for adults, children, and infants. Understanding these crucial skills can save lives in emergencies. This guide will break down the essential steps for performing CPR and using an AED effectively.

Step 1: Assess the Situation

• Check for responsiveness: Gently tap the person and shout, "Are you okay?"
• Call for help: If the person is unresponsive, call 911 or ask someone else to do so.
• Ensure safety: Make sure the environment is safe for you and the victim.

Step 2: Check for Breathing

• Look, listen, and feel: Position your ear near the victim's mouth and nose while watching their chest for movement.
• Determine if breathing is normal or absent: If the person is not breathing or only gasping, initiate CPR.

Step 3: Perform CPR

For Adults:

1. Position the hands:
   • Place the heel of one hand on the center of the chest, with the other hand on top.
2. Compress the chest:
   • Push hard and fast, at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute, to a depth of about 2 inches.
3. Give rescue breaths (if trained):
   • After 30 compressions, provide 2 breaths, ensuring a proper seal.
   • Each breath should last about 1 second and make the chest rise.

For Children:

1. Use one hand:
   • Use one hand for chest compressions if the child is small.
2. Depth of compressions:
   • Compress the chest about 1.5 inches deep.
3. Perform rescue breaths:
   • Follow the same method as for adults, adjusting the force to be gentle.

For Infants:

1. Use two fingers:
   • Place two fingers in the center of the infant's chest, just below the nipple line.
2. Compress the chest:
   • Push down about 1.5 inches deep at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute.
3. Give rescue breaths:
   • Cover the infant’s mouth and nose with your mouth, giving gentle breaths.

Step 4: Use the AED

• Turn on the AED: Follow the voice prompts.
• Attach pads:
  • Place the pads on the bare chest as indicated on the pads.
  • One pad goes on the upper right chest and the other on the lower left side.
• Clear the area: Ensure no one is touching the person before analyzing the heart rhythm.
• Deliver a shock if advised: Follow the AED's instructions to deliver a shock if necessary.
• Continue CPR: Resume CPR immediately after the shock, continuing until emergency services arrive or the person shows signs of life.

Conclusion

Having a solid understanding of CPR and AED techniques is essential for responding effectively in emergencies. Remember to assess the situation, check for breathing, perform CPR based on age, and use an AED when available. For more in-depth training, consider enrolling in a certified CPR course. Keep practicing these skills to stay prepared for any emergency situation.