What Is CPR and How to Perform It?

Emergencies can strike when least expected, and knowing how to respond effectively can make all the difference. Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) is a life-saving technique used during emergencies like cardiac arrest, where every second counts. According to studies, immediate CPR can double or even triple the chances of survival for someone experiencing a sudden cardiac emergency. Just as CPR helps save lives, having health insurance can provide a financial safety net during medical crises, ensuring peace of mind when it matters most.  We will explore what CPR is, why it is crucial, and how to perform it correctly. Additionally, we will highlight the importance of health insurance in covering medical emergencies and critical illnesses related to heart conditions.

What Is CPR and Why Is It Important?

Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation, commonly known as CPR, is an emergency procedure designed to restore breathing and circulation in someone whose heart has stopped beating or who has stopped breathing. CPR combines chest compressions and rescue breaths to help maintain oxygen flow to the brain and vital organs until professional medical help arrives.

The importance of CPR cannot be overstated. Cardiac arrest, often caused by heart attacks or other critical conditions, is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. Without immediate intervention, brain damage can occur within minutes due to a lack of oxygen. CPR serves as a bridge, buying precious time until advanced medical care is available.

Similarly, health insurance acts as a safety net during medical emergencies. Comprehensive health insurance plans ensure that you are financially equipped to handle unexpected medical expenses, including treatments for heart-related conditions that may necessitate CPR. 

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Recognising when CPR is needed is vital to saving lives. CPR should be performed when:

• The person is unresponsive: If someone is unconscious and does not respond to verbal cues or physical stimulation, they may need CPR.
• The person is not breathing or breathing abnormally: Look for signs of normal breathing. Gasping or irregular breathing could indicate cardiac arrest.
• The person has no pulse: If you cannot detect a pulse, it is a clear sign that CPR is required.

It is important to act quickly in such situations. Just as CPR can be life-saving in emergencies, health insurance plans with cashless treatment options can provide immediate access to medical care without worrying about upfront payments. Get instant quotes from leading insurers. 

Step 1: Assess the situation

Ensure the area is safe for you and the person needing help. Check for responsiveness by tapping their shoulder and asking loudly, “Are you okay?”

Step 2: Call for help

Dial emergency services immediately or ask someone nearby to do so. Inform them about the situation and location.

Step 3: Begin chest compressions

• Place the heel of your hand on the centre of the person’s chest, with your other hand on top.
• Push hard and fast, compressing the chest at least 5 cm deep at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute.

Step 4: Deliver rescue breaths (if trained)

• Tilt the person’s head back to open their airway.
• Pinch their nose shut, place your mouth over theirs, and blow air into their lungs.
• Alternate between 30 chest compressions and 2 rescue breaths.

Step 5: Continue until help arrives

Keep performing CPR until emergency medical personnel take over or the person shows signs of recovery.

If you are not trained in CPR, focus solely on chest compressions. This hands-only CPR can still significantly improve survival chances.

While CPR is a straightforward procedure, mistakes can reduce its effectiveness or cause harm. Avoid the following:

• Not calling for help: Always alert emergency services before starting CPR.
• Incorrect hand placement: Ensure your hands are positioned correctly to avoid injuring the ribs.
• Inadequate depth of compressions: Compressions that are too shallow may not circulate blood effectively.
• Stopping prematurely: Continue CPR until professional help arrives or the person regains consciousness.

Just as proper CPR technique is essential, choosing the right health insurance plan is critical for ensuring financial preparedness during emergencies. Check plans with coverage for critical illnesses like cardiac conditions can provide much-needed support. 

How effective is CPR in saving lives?

CPR can dramatically improve survival rates when performed promptly and correctly. Studies show that immediate CPR can double or triple the chances of survival during cardiac arrest. However, its effectiveness depends on factors like:

• Time: The sooner CPR is initiated, the higher the chances of survival.
• Technique: Proper chest compressions and rescue breaths are key to effective CPR.
• Access to medical care: CPR buys time until professional medical help arrives.

Similarly, health insurance plays a crucial role in ensuring access to timely medical care. Critical illness plans with coverage ranging from Rs. 10 lakh to Rs. 50 lakh can provide financial support for treatments related to heart conditions, ensuring better outcomes. Check health insurance premium plans for plans with comprehensive coverage 

What are the risks and precautions of performing CPR?

While CPR is generally safe, it can have risks, especially if performed incorrectly. These include:

• Rib fractures: Compressions may sometimes cause broken ribs, especially in elderly individuals.
• Internal injuries: Incorrect hand placement can lead to injuries to internal organs.
• Transmission of infections: Rescue breaths may carry a risk of infection transmission.

Precautions to take while performing CPR:

• Ensure proper hand placement to minimise the risk of injury.
• Use a CPR mask or barrier device during rescue breaths to prevent infection.
• Learn CPR through certified training programs to ensure accuracy.

Similarly, health insurance plans come with certain terms and conditions, such as waiting periods for critical illness coverage. Choosing plans with minimal or zero waiting periods ensures you are prepared for emergencies without delay. 

Conclusion

CPR is a powerful life-saving technique that can make a critical difference during emergencies. Knowing when and how to perform CPR is essential for everyone, whether trained or untrained. Similarly, being prepared for medical emergencies with comprehensive health insurance is equally important. Bajaj Finance via Bajaj Finserv app  facilitates access to health insurance plans from leading insurers, offering benefits like cashless treatments, coverage for critical illnesses, and tax savings under Section 80D.

Just as CPR helps save lives, health insurance provides financial security during challenging times. Explore health insurance options today to ensure you are prepared for life’s unexpected moments.