Every workplace should be a safe place, but emergencies can still happen. Knowing how to respond quickly and effectively in a crisis is essential. One of the most important skills you can learn is CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation). CPR can save a life during a sudden cardiac arrest by maintaining blood flow to the brain and heart until professional help arrives.
Whether it’s a colleague experiencing sudden cardiac arrest or a medical crisis requiring immediate response, being prepared to administer CPR is essential. While calling emergency services is the first step, quick and effective CPR can help maintain circulation until professional help arrives.
So, we’ll walk you through the critical steps of CPR, equipping you with the knowledge to respond confidently and potentially save a life in a workplace emergency.
Signs Someone Needs CPR
Recognizing when someone needs CPR is the first step in an emergency. Several signs can tell you that a person requires immediate help. If someone suddenly collapses and is unconscious, this is a clear indicator. Another vital sign is if the person is not breathing or only gasping. These irregular breaths, known as agonal breathing, are not effective and require urgent care.
You might also notice that the person has no heartbeat or pulse. These signs point to cardiac arrest, where the heart has stopped pumping blood as it should. In such cases, starting CPR right away is crucial to keep oxygen flowing to the brain and vital organs.
Quick Assessment Techniques
Quick assessment techniques help you determine whether CPR is needed. First, check if the person is responsive. Shake their shoulder gently and shout, “Are you okay?” If there’s no response, it’s time to act fast.
Next, check for breathing. Place your ear near the person’s mouth and nose. Look to see if their chest is rising and listen for breath sounds. If there is no sign of breathing or you hear agonal breathing, start CPR.
Also, feel for a pulse using the carotid artery in the neck. If you can’t find a pulse within 10 seconds, this is another sign to begin CPR. Quick action based on these assessments can make a life-saving difference.
Steps to Perform CPR
Check Responsiveness and Call for Help
Before starting CPR, it’s important to check if the person is responsive and to call for help. Gently shake the person’s shoulders and ask loudly, “Are you okay?” If there is no response, you need to act quickly.
Call 911 or ask someone nearby to call. Inform them of the situation and your exact location. While help is on the way, make sure someone gets an automated external defibrillator (AED) if available. Quick communication ensures that professional help is on its way while you begin CPR.
Performing Chest Compressions and Rescue Breaths
Once you’ve called for help, start with chest compressions. Place the heel of one hand in the center of the person’s chest, right on the sternum. Put your other hand on top, interlocking your fingers. Use your body weight to press down hard and fast, at least 2 inches deep, at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute. Allow the chest to rise fully between compressions.
After 30 compressions, give two rescue breaths. To do this, tilt the person’s head back slightly to open the airway and pinch their nose closed. Take a normal breath, cover their mouth with yours, and blow until you see the chest rise. Repeat for the second breath.
Continue this cycle of 30 compressions and two breaths until professional help arrives or the person shows signs of life, such as moving or breathing on their own. Your actions during these critical moments can provide the lifeline needed for survival.
What is an AED and How It Works
An AED, or Automated External Defibrillator, is a medical device that can be used to help those experiencing sudden cardiac arrest. It’s designed to be easy to use, even for someone without medical training. The AED analyzes the heart’s rhythm and, if needed, delivers an electric shock to help the heart re-establish an effective rhythm.
The device comes with straightforward instructions, often with voice prompts, making it user-friendly in emergencies. AEDs are crucial in improving the chances of survival during a cardiac arrest. They can indeed save lives when used promptly and correctly.
Steps for Using an AED Properly
Using an AED involves several steps. First, turn on the AED by pressing the power button or opening the lid. The device will give you voice instructions to guide you through the process.
1. Attach the Electrodes: Place the electrode pads on the person’s bare chest as shown in the diagrams on the pads. Make sure one pad is placed on the upper right side of the chest and the other on the lower left side.
2. Analyze the Heart Rhythm: The AED will automatically check the person’s heart rhythm once the pads are in place. Make sure no one is touching the person during this time.
3. Deliver the Shock: If the AED determines that a shock is needed, it will instruct you to press the shock button. Make sure everyone is clear of the person before delivering the shock.
4. Resume CPR: After delivering the shock, continue performing CPR until the AED reanalyzes the heart rhythm, or emergency medical help arrives.
Providing Care Until Help Arrives
After performing CPR and using the AED, it’s essential to continue to provide care until professional help arrives. Keep up with chest compressions and rescue breaths if the person is not breathing or does not have a pulse. If the AED is still attached, follow any additional prompts it provides.
Make sure you keep the person as comfortable as possible. If they start breathing, place them in the recovery position by rolling them onto their side. Keep monitoring their pulse and breathing while waiting for emergency services.
Reporting the Incident and Workplace Protocols
Once the emergency is over and the person is in the care of medical professionals, it’s important to report the incident according to your workplace protocols. Document what happened, including the time the emergency occurred, the actions taken, and the response time of emergency services.
Notify supervisors and health and safety officers about the incident. They may need to review workplace safety measures to prevent future emergencies. Proper reporting ensures that your workplace can maintain safety standards and provide necessary follow-up care or counseling for employees involved.
Effective CPR Steps for Handling Workplace Emergencies
Emergency preparedness is crucial in any workplace. Knowing the steps to take in a CPR situation can make the difference between life and death. From recognizing the need for CPR to performing chest compressions and using an AED, each step is vital to ensure a positive outcome.
Always be ready to act quickly and confidently. Whether it’s a colleague, a client, or even a stranger, your ability to perform CPR effectively is an invaluable skill. Remember, continuous care and proper reporting are key components of workplace safety.
To gain these essential skills and the confidence to use them, reach out to Life Rescue Training. We offer comprehensive CPR and First Aid Training in Rockville, MD. Equip yourself and your team with the knowledge to handle emergencies like a pro. Sign up for a class today!