CPR stands for cardiopulmonary resuscitation, which is a combination of "rescue breathing" and chest compressions. Learning CPR requires little effort at all and is a relatively simple skill to learn. Knowing how to perform it is a tremendous service as you may find yourself in the position some day of saving another's life, possibly a family member, close friend, a child or even a complete stranger.
The University of Washington reports that "sudden cardiac arrest is the leading cause of death in adults. Most arrests occur in persons with underlying heart disease. CPR doubles a person's chance of survival from sudden cardiac arrest." Additionaly, they note that "75% of all cardiac arrests happen in people's homes."
Kidshealth.org simplifies the process, explaining:
The three basic parts of CPR are easily remembered as "ABC": A for airway, B for breathing, and C for circulation.
"A is for airway. The victim's airway must be open for breathing to be restored. The airway may be blocked when a child loses consciousness or may be obstructed by food or some other foreign object. In a CPR course, participants learn how to open the airway and position the child so the airway is ready for rescue breathing. The course will include what to do to clear the airway if you believe an infant or child has choked and the airway is blocked.
B is for breathing. Rescue breathing is begun when a child isn't breathing. Someone performing rescue breathing essentially breathes for the victim by forcing air into the lungs. This procedure includes breathing into the victim's mouth at correct intervals and checking for signs of life. A CPR course will review correct techniques and procedures for rescuers to position themselves to give mouth-to-mouth resuscitation to infants, children, and adults.
C is for circulation. Chest compressions can sometimes restore circulation. Two rescue breaths should be provided and followed immediately by cycles of 30 chest compressions and 2 rescue breaths. It is not necessary to check for signs of circulation to perform this technique. This procedure involves pushing on the chest to help circulate blood and maintain blood flow to major organs. A CPR course will teach you how to perform chest compressions in infants, children, and adults and how to coordinate the compressions with rescue breathing."
The University of Washington has put together a wonderful site designed to education the public about CPR. That website can be found here.
