Let’s Clear The Common Confusion Of What Should Come First CPR Or AED?
CPR stands for cardiopulmonary resuscitation, an emergency procedure to be carried out when a person’s heart stops pumping or breathing stops. It is an amalgamation of chest compressions and artificial breaths to resuscitate a person. When performed immediately, it increases a person’s survival rate post-cardiac arrest.
AED (automated external defibrillator) is a handy device used to aid patients suffering from cardiac arrest, which can be fatal and lead to death. An AED senses the heart rate and delivers an electric shock when necessary to get the heart back on track.
Why learn CPR and AED
At least 3000 people suffer from cardiac arrest annually in Singapore. Currently, the only way of restoring the heart’s rhythm during cardiac arrest is an AED. It doesn’t mean you shouldn’t seek professional help. But by the time the responders arrive, the chances of survival keep decreasing by 10% for each minute wasted. Thus, having access to an AED and knowing how to operate it is critical. If you want to purchase an AED device or a dummy to practice CPR, one of the most renowned businesses in the field for cpr aed singapore is HTM Medico.
Three ways you can learn CPR/AED
In-person- Many certificate courses teach CPR and AED, giving personalized attention. You can learn the importance of AED, and how to apply it correctly.
Online- This is perfect for people who don’t have enough time for a physical class. However, you don’t get one-on-one experience and cannot verify your skills from a certified trainer. It is also better to buy equipment for CPR AED Singapore if you plan to take online training.
Blended learning- These are a blend of in-person and online teaching courses. You get a self-paced, interactive session and an in-person skill demonstration.
Before administering CPR
Check if the person is okay and the scene is safe. Make sure the person needs help by tapping on the shoulder and asking.
Once it is clear that the person needs help, Call 911. Ask someone to fetch the AED machine, if you can’t get access to one, gear up to assist.
Free the airway by tilting the head slightly back and lifting the chin
Listen carefully for breathing sounds or place hands on the abdomen for at least 10 secs. If you feel the person is not breathing, begin CPR.
CPR steps as per red cross
- Start chest compressions by reinforcing hands on each other in the centre of the chest. Deliver pushes at a rate of 100/ min and at least 2 inches deep.
- Give rescue breaths
Give two breaths after every 30 chest compressions making a seal by placing your mouth over the person’s mouth. Tilt the person’s head slightly back, pinch the nose and blow to make the chest rise. Deliver the second breath only if the chest rises. Otherwise, the person could be choking.
Continue the CPR cycles till the patient shows signs of life, an AED is available, or a medical responder arrives at the scene.