The first steps that rescuers need to take before administering CPR is just as important as administering this life-saving technique as soon as possible. These steps ensure that further injuries are prevented and that the patient’s probability for survival is increased. This is why it is highly recommended to take CPR training courses which tackle these important steps. Here are some of the first steps that rescuers should take before administering CPR to an individual.
Check the scene
Regardless of the age of the patient or individuals, rescuers should first assess the scene for any safety issues which may put the lives of the other rescuers, bystanders and the afflicted individuals at risk. This assessment should be done fast and efficiently to ensure that no time is wasted over trivial environmental risks that do not pose direct threat to anybody near the scene.
Assess for consciousness
Rescuers should make the effort to assess the consciousness of the individual may it be an adult or a child since some of the principles or steps in CPR are different for conscious and unconscious individuals. It also helps rescuers determine if they can afford to ask a few questions about the medical condition of the individual and the events leading up to the injury or accidents in order to help determine the appropriate medical interventions. Assessing for consciousness can be done in numerous ways but the more widely acceptable way is to tap or squeeze the shoulders of the individual very gently in order to avoid inflicting bone damage. Asking the individual if they are OK is also recommended in which rescuers should look out for verbal and non-verbal responses which would indicate that the patient heard the question but are unable to respond verbally.
Call for EMS
For adults, it is highly recommended to call for an ambulance before administering CPR since adults have more mature organs which means that rescuers have a few seconds to call paramedics. When it comes to children on the other hand, it is advisable to administer five cycles of CPR before calling the paramedics. This is because children have underdeveloped organs which means that they need CPR more imminently.
By attending thorough CPR training courses, rescuers will learn about the other steps that are necessary before administering CPR. They will also learn how to do these steps more efficiently which would not only help them, but also the healthcare professionals who will be treating the patent at a later time.