What are the key steps in performing CPR, and how does it differ for adults and children?

Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) is a life-saving technique designed to maintain blood circulation and provide oxygen to the body when the heart has stopped beating. The key steps in performing CPR vary slightly between adults and children, reflecting physiological differences and the need for age-appropriate interventions.

Key Steps in Performing CPR for Adults:

1. Assess the Situation:
- Ensure the environment is safe for both the rescuer and the victim.
- Check for responsiveness by tapping the person and shouting for help.

2. Activate Emergency Response:
- Call for emergency medical assistance or instruct someone else to do so.

3. Check for Breathing:
- Open the airway and look, listen, and feel for normal breathing for no more than 10 seconds.

4. Initiate Chest Compressions:
- Place the heel of one hand on the center of the chest (lower half).
- Use the upper body weight to compress the chest at least 2 inches deep and at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute.

5. Deliver Rescue Breaths:
- After 30 compressions, provide two rescue breaths.
- Maintain an open airway using the head-tilt, chin-lift technique.

6. Continue CPR:
- Repeat cycles of chest compressions and rescue breaths until emergency medical help arrives or the person starts breathing on their own.

Key Steps in Performing CPR for Children:

Performing CPR on children follows a similar sequence, but there are notable differences:

1. Assess the Situation:
- Confirm safety and check for responsiveness.

2. Activate Emergency Response:
- Call for emergency assistance or instruct someone else to do so.

3. Check for Breathing:
- Look, listen, and feel for normal breathing for no more than 10 seconds.

4. Chest Compressions:
- Use two hands (for infants) or one or two hands (for children) to compress the chest about 2 inches deep.
- Compressions should be performed at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute.

5. Rescue Breaths:
- Provide two rescue breaths after 30 compressions.
- Use a gentle puff of air for infants and a breath sufficient to make the chest rise for children.

6. Continue CPR:
- Repeat cycles of chest compressions and rescue breaths until professional help arrives or the child begins breathing on their own.

Adapting CPR for children involves adjustments in hand placement, compression depth, and the amount of air delivered during rescue breaths. It is crucial to recognize and respond promptly to cardiac arrest, tailoring CPR techniques to the age of the victim for the most effective life-saving intervention.