Check for signs of circulation (such as coughing or movement) for 5-10 seconds.
If there is circulation but the victim is not breathing, give Rescue Breathing at a rate of 1 breath every 5 seconds.
Place heel of one hand on the middle of victim’s breastbone. With your other hand directly on top of the first hand, depress sternum 1.5 to 2 inches.
Check for return of circulation every two minutes.
Head-tilt/chin-lift – open victims’ airway by tilting their head back with one hand while lifting up their chin with your other hand.
Position your cheek close to victims’ nose and mouth, look toward victims’ chest, and Look, Listen, and Feel for breathing (5-10 seconds).
If not breathing, pinch victim’s nose closed and give 2 full breaths into victim’s mouth (use microshield if available).
If breaths won’t go in, reposition head and try again to give the breaths. If still blocked continue CPR, with the exception of looking in the mouth for a foreign object before giving another breath.
CONTINUE UNITERRUPTED UNTIL ADVANCED LIFE SUPPORT IS AVAILABLE.
Richland County EMS offers classes in CPR and first aid. Contact the office for more information.