Cardiopulmonary resuscitation: Every citizen is a lifesaver

Abstract

CPR stands for cardiopulmonary resuscitation. It is an emergency life-saving procedure that is done when someone’s breathing or heartbeat has stopped. This may happen after a medical emergency, such as an electric shock, heart attack, or drowning. CPR combines rescue breathing and chest compressions. CPR combines rescue breathing and chest compressions. Rescue breathing provides oxygen to the person’s lungs. Chest compressions keep oxygen-rich blood flowing until the heartbeat and breathing can be restored. CPR can keep oxygen-rich blood flowing to the brain and other organs until emergency medical treatment can restore a typical heart rhythm. When the heart stops, the body no longer gets oxygen- rich blood. The lack of oxygen-rich blood can cause brain damage in only a few minutes.