Proper CPR Practices: When to Stop and Check for Signs of Life

Effective cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is crucial in emergency situations, especially when rescuers are working outside of a medical facility. Knowing the appropriate interval to check for signs of life is essential for ensuring the best outcomes. This article will provide a detailed guide on when to stop and check for signs of life during CPR on an adult, focusing on best practices and the key steps involved.

Guidelines for Performing CPR

When performing CPR on an adult in an environment outside a hospital, it is critical to continue providing chest compressions and rescue breaths until emergency medical help arrives, or until you are physically unable to continue. Periodic checks for signs of life are necessary to gauge the effectiveness of your resuscitation efforts.

The Importance of Periodic Checks

During CPR, you should check for signs of life approximately every two minutes. These checks are vital in assessing whether the person is returning to normal heart rhythm or if further resuscitation efforts are needed. Two-minute intervals allow for a reasonable assessment without breaking the rhythm and continuity of chest compressions too frequently.

How to Check for Breathing and a Pulse

When checking for signs of life, focus on two primary indicators: breathing and a pulse. Here’s how to perform these checks effectively:

Checking for Breathing

To assess breathing, observe the person’s chest for any movement for about 10 seconds. Listen for breathing sounds near the person’s nose and mouth, and feel for any exhaled air on your face for another 10 seconds. This process should be completed together to ensure accuracy.

Checking for a Pulse

For a more comprehensive assessment, you should also check for a pulse. The Carotid pulse, located on the side of the neck, is the best place to check as it is most easily palpable. You can also check the Femoral pulse in the groin area, as wrist pulses may be too weak to detect accurately.

Continuing CPR Until Help Arrives

If two minutes pass without a positive change in the person’s condition, continue performing CPR until emergency medical personnel arrive or until you are too physically exhausted to continue. Do not stop performing chest compressions unless another trained individual takes over or a responder with a defibrillator is available and ready to use it.

Conclusion

In conclusion, knowing when to stop and check for signs of life during CPR is critical to the effective resuscitation of an adult. By following the recommended guidelines of checking approximately every two minutes, you can ensure that your efforts are most effective and provide the best chance of survival for the victim. Remember, the goal is to keep the chest compressed until they have a good pulse or until emergency medical help arrives.

References

[1] American Heart Association. (2020). Guidelines for CPR and ECC.

[2] Layman, A. N., Lopian, F. T. (2019). CPR and emergency medical care: a comprehensive review for the emergency medical technician. Jones Bartlett Learning.

[3] American Red Cross. (n.d.). CPR/AED Training.