A cycle of CPR consists of thirty chest compressions followed by two rescue breaths. This sequence is repeated to maintain blood flow and oxygen delivery to the body during cardiac arrest.
Understanding CPR Cycles
The goal of Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) is to manually circulate blood and provide oxygen to the body when the heart has stopped beating. A CPR cycle helps achieve this through a structured approach.
Components of a CPR Cycle:
- Chest Compressions: These are rhythmic pushes applied to the center of the chest. They aim to physically pump blood through the body. The reference indicates that these compressions are fundamental to restore blood flow.
- Rescue Breaths: These are breaths given to the victim to provide oxygen to their lungs. It is essential not to over-breathe or use too much force, as stated in the reference.
Practical Application
When performing CPR, it's crucial to follow the specified ratio of compressions to breaths:
| Action | Count |
|---|---|
| Chest Compressions | 30 |
| Rescue Breaths | 2 |
After delivering two rescue breaths, immediately resume chest compressions. This 30:2 ratio is one full cycle of CPR.
Key Considerations
- Do Not Interrupt Compressions: Minimizing interruptions in chest compressions is vital for effective CPR. The reference highlights the importance of continuous compressions to maintain blood flow.
- Avoid Over-breathing: The reference explicitly cautions against giving too many breaths or using too much force when delivering rescue breaths. This can be harmful and inefficient.
Summary
One cycle of CPR is the repeated sequence of 30 chest compressions followed by 2 rescue breaths. It is crucial to perform each step correctly and efficiently to maximize the chances of a positive outcome during a cardiac emergency. Always remember to continue chest compressions to restore blood flow.
