CPR and AED: Adult, Child, and Heart Attack Emergency Skills

Depth of chest compressions for an adult

At least 2 inches

Recommended rate for chest compressions

100-120 compressions per minute

When to stop performing CPR

When professional help takes over, the person shows signs of life (breathing or pulse), an AED instructs you to stop, or you become too exhausted to continue

AED

Automated External Defibrillator — it analyzes heart rhythm and delivers an electric shock if needed

Heart attack symptoms in men vs. women

Men: "Classic" symptoms; Women: subtle symptoms (mild chest pain, shortness of breath, nausea, fatigue, dizziness) lasting hours or days before the attack

Immediate action if someone is having a heart attack

Call 9-1-1

Importance of minimizing interruptions during chest compressions

Interruptions stop blood flow and oxygen delivery to the body

How often rescuers should switch roles during CPR

Every 2 minutes

Main difference in CPR technique for infants compared to adults

Depth of compressions

Using AEDs on children and adults

Do not use an adult AED on a child; you can use a pediatric AED on an adult if necessary

Meaning of 'no shock advised' from an AED

The heart rhythm cannot be treated with a shock

Why the chest must be dry before applying AED pads

So pads stick properly and to prevent burns

Compression-only CPR

CPR without rescue breaths; used primarily for adults who collapse suddenly

Positioning AED pads on a small child or infant

Anterior-posterior placement (one pad on chest, one on back)

Agonal breaths

Gasping, irregular breaths that signal cardiac arrest

Importance of full chest recoil between compressions

It lets the heart refill with blood, ensuring better circulation

What to do if the person vomits during CPR

Roll them onto their side, clear the airway, then continue CPR

Head-tilt/chin-lift maneuver

It lifts the tongue away from the throat to open the airway

Purpose of aspirin during a suspected heart attack

To prevent blood clots from forming or growing

Effective teamwork during a cardiac emergency

Recognize and call emergency services; perform high-quality CPR; use an AED quickly

What to do if you're alone and too tired to continue CPR

It's acceptable to stop

Importance of early defibrillation in cardiac arrest

It's the most effective way to restore normal heart rhythm

Checking for responsiveness in a possible cardiac arrest victim

Shout and tap their shoulders to see if they respond

Recovery position

Place an unconscious but breathing person on their side to keep the airway open and allow fluids to drain

Overcoming fear of performing CPR or using an AED

Get certified in CPR and AED training