Why is CPR important?
- The lack of oxygen to the brain can cause irreversible damage to the brain within minutes. CPR maintains the oxygen supply to the brain, reducing the risk of brain injury.
- Immediate initiation of CPR increases the chances of a successful revival of the heart.
- It provides critical support until professional medical help arrives.
Full Form of CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation)
CPR stands for Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation. CPR is an emergency live saving technique that combines chest compressions and rescue breathing(mouth-to-mouth). Here, cardio means ‘heart’, pulmonary means ‘lungs’, and resuscitation stands for ‘revival’. The procedure is performed to maintain oxygen and blood flow when the heart suddenly stops beating(cardiac arrest). It should be given immediately to increase the chances of survival. CPR is most commonly performed in case of cardiac arrest, electric shock, drowning, etc.
Dr.Kouwenhoven, Dr. Safar, and Dr. Jude invented the technique of CPR in 1960 by combining mouth-to-mouth resuscitation and chest compressions.