Chest compressions

To begin this article, we offer you a small slice of our history.

In 1740, the Paris Academy of Sciences recommended the use of mouth-to-mouth as well as chest compressions in order to rescue victims who had been drowned from the Seine river.

Since these recommendations, the techniques of cardiopulmonary resuscitation continued to evolve.

Formed in 1992, ILCOR (the International Committee on Resuscitation) became the leader in resuscitation research.

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• The latest studies have shown that it is easy for a rescuer who has not received any training to practice only chest compressions. It is all the easier for the RMU (Medical Emergency Dispatcher) to explain the technique on the phone when the first responder dials 911.
  • The latest studies suggest that the survival rate after cardiac cardiac arrest in adults with CPR with compressions only is similar to that seen with CPR combining compressions and insufflations when delivered before arrival. EMS (Emergency Medical Services).
  • Chest compressions only
    • Are acceptable for any rescuer in case of cardiopulmonary resuscitation
    • In the case of a trained non-professional rescuer, it is recommended, if he feels able to do so, to perform the breaths in addition to the chest compressions

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• For victims of cardiac arrest, it is justified that rescuers perform chest compressions at a rate of at least 100 per minute.
  • The frequency with which chest compressions are performed is a critical determinant of survival in order to maintain neurological abilities. It is essential to limit interruptions during continuous compressions so that they can be effective. Most studies show a higher survival rate when compressions are higher frequency. However, a limit is recommended for the frequency of chest compressions. They must not exceed 120 compressions per minute. Preliminary data indicates that extremely rapid compressions (in the order of 140 or more compressions per minute) imply inadequate depth of compressions, which has a negative impact on survival results.
    • Push fast
      • 100 to 120 compressions per minute
      • Minimize interruptions. Without wasting time:
        • clear the airways
        • recognize cardiac arrest
        • administer ventilations (insufflate)

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• Rescuers should perform compressions at least 2 inches (5 centimeters) deep in an average adult, avoiding depths greater than 2.4 inches (6 centimeters). In pediatrics, a depth of about one third (1/3) of thorax depth is recommended; about 1.5 inches (4 centimeters) in the infant and about 2 inches (5 centimeters) in the child.
  • For an adult, it is recommended that the chest be squeezed at least 2 inches (5 centimeters) in order for the heart to compress properly to eject oxygenated blood throughout the body. Preliminary data indicate that excessive depth of compression in adults, more than 2.4 inches (6 centimeters) has a negative impact on the results. Excessive compressions do not promote life-threatening injuries. More often than not, the statistics show that the cuts are not deep enough.
    • Push hard
      • Make sure you are well positioned
      • Perform deep enough compressions

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• Rescuers should avoid leaning on the victim’s chest between compressions to allow total chest relaxation in cardiac arrest patients.
  • Total relaxation of the chest promotes venous return and cardiorespiratory circulation. The total relaxation of the victim’s chest allows the heart to gorge as much blood as possible before it can be ejected back into the body via the next chest compression.
    • Control your chest compressions
      • Do not lean on the victim’s chest