It’s always best to be prepared in case of emergencies. While no one wants to imagine anyone in physical distress, being well-equipped with CPR knowledge gives you the power to save someone’s life potentially. Here are some life-saving CPR tips to take note of:

1. Check for Breathing and Responsiveness

If you notice anyone who appears to be in distress, start by assessing the situation. First, check the person for responsiveness. If the individual does not respond to basic questions or taps on the shoulder, try to check their breathing. Clear their airways by tilting the person’s head slightly upward and then listen for their breaths. According to the American Red Cross, gasping for air or choking sounds is not considered breathing.

2. Perform Chest Compressions

The chest compressions guidelines are pretty much the same for adults, children, and infants (but not newborns 4 weeks and under). Start by placing the person on a flat surface on their back. Kneel beside them, close to the chest region, and put the palm of one hand on the center of the person’s chest between the nipples. Then, place your opposite hand on top of the first one, keep your elbows straight, and begin compressions using your upper body’s weight. The compressions should be about 2 inches deep, at a rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute, if rescue breaths are not administered. If they are, then the guidelines suggest 30 compressions to two rescue breaths.

3. Administer Rescue Breaths

Rescue breaths can be given through mouth to mouth or mouth to nose, depending on the circumstances. If administering mouth to mouth, pinch the person’s nose closed so that the air is sealed during the breaths. Two breaths are meant to be given following 30 compressions. Watch for a rise in the person’s chest following the rescue breaths. If you do see a rise, wait for the chest to fall again before resuming the process.

4. Repeat if Necessary

If the person is still struggling to breathe after completing the above steps, continue the process while waiting for professional medical help. If there is an AED on hand, you may need to use it at this point.

5. Use AED if Necessary

The AED is an automated external defibrillator that can assess the injured person’s heart rate and determine whether a shock or continued CPR is necessary. AEDs come with detailed instructions, as well as voice prompts and directions for the user. Keep in mind that AED usage is intended for use only on people 8 years and older and that nothing and no one may touch the person while the electric currents are given.

While all of these tips are important to learn, the most crucial step is calling 911 immediately. Administering CPR is a means of stabilizing a person in need while awaiting professional medical help. If there are any signs of a person in a health crisis, always call 911 first thing.

Whether you’re just learning CPR or looking for a refresher, consider signing up for one of our CPR training courses at Red Safety. We offer CPR classes year-round, including the option to schedule a private lesson in Seattle, Renton, and Tukwila, Washington. To schedule a class with us today, simply fill out our online contact form, and we will be in touch shortly. Thank you for taking the time to potentially save a life, and we look forward to seeing you there!