Most People Know CPR

According to the American Heart Association, almost 80 percent of cardiac arrests happen at home with family members who don’t know CPR.

Based on the latest unscientific A Hearty Life poll, though, that may not necessarily be true. Out of 20 people who voted, 12 (60%) say they know some form of CPR.

Do you know CPR?

• Yes. I’m certified.: 30% (6)
• Yes. Sort of.: 30% (6)
• No: 40% (8)

Immediate CPR is critical for anyone who is experiencing a heart attack. Researchers say that CPR could be made even simpler and still be just as effective.

• If someone encounters a person who cannot be awakened and is not breathing, he or she should assume that the person is in cardiac arrest. They should give two breaths and move right into giving chest compressions without wasting any more time evaluating the victim.
• Increase to 30 the number of chest compressions given before pausing to give two rescue breaths. This change applies to victims of all ages (except newborn infants) and is even recommended for healthcare professionals who might be working on their own before additional help arrives.
• The emphasis on providing high quality CPR with fewer interruptions is also reflected in the changes to the new guidelines for using a defibrillator. For example, rescuers are advised to use only one shock before resuming CPR, rather than three, as previously recommended.

For more information on CPR, see the 2005 American Heart Association Guidelines for Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation and Emergency Cardiovascular Care.

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