Emergency intervention that includes basic and advanced life support practices, providing chest compressions and, when needed, respiratory support to restore circulation in a person with sudden cardiac arrest.
Indication
- Loss of consciousness with no detectable pulse
- Respiratory arrest or inadequate breathing (gasping)
- Sudden cardiac arrest
- Circulatory failure following drowning, electrocution, or poisoning
- Respiratory and circulatory arrest in newborns or infants (special technique)
- Loss of circulation following trauma or hypothermia
Preparation
- The safety of the scene is assessed; if there is danger, the patient is moved to a safe area
- 112 (emergency line) is called immediately, and an automated external defibrillator (AED) is requested if available
- The patient is placed supine on a firm surface
- For healthcare personnel: monitor, defibrillator, advanced airway, and medications are prepared
How it's performed
- For lay rescuers, basic life support (BLS): hands-only chest compressions can be applied at a rate of 100-120 per minute, 5-6 cm depth, without interruption
- For healthcare personnel, advanced cardiac life support (ACLS): 30 chest compressions plus 2 breaths are applied in sequence
- In a shockable rhythm (VF/pulseless VT), early defibrillation is delivered
- Intravenous access is obtained; medications such as adrenaline and amiodarone are given according to protocol
- Advanced airway (intubation, supraglottic device) is used when needed
- Resuscitation is continued until return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) or until criteria to terminate resuscitation are met
Post-procedure
- After ROSC, the patient is admitted to the intensive care unit
- Targeted temperature management (32-36°C) may be applied
- Neurological prognosis is evaluated (24-72 hours later)
- The underlying cause (MI, arrhythmia, electrolyte disturbance) is investigated and treated
- After discharge, cardiology and neurology follow-up is planned
Risks
- Rib fracture or sternum injury during chest compressions (common, considered acceptable)
- Aspiration of stomach contents into the lungs
- Neurological injury or brain death after prolonged arrest
- Risk of electrical contact during defibrillation (if rules are not followed)
- Unsuccessful resuscitation — ROSC may not be achieved in every case
FAQ
I have no medical training; can I perform CPR?
Yes. For untrained people, hands-only CPR is recommended. Call 112 and follow the operator's guidance; even simple intervention saves lives.
What is the difference between BLS and ACLS?
BLS (basic life support) includes chest compressions, rescue breathing, and AED use; anyone can perform it. ACLS (advanced cardiac life support) includes medications, advanced airway, and rhythm analysis; it is performed by healthcare personnel.
Is the AED (automated external defibrillator) safe?
Yes. The device automatically analyzes the rhythm and recommends a shock only when needed. It guides the user with voice prompts; even untrained people can use it safely.
What if a rib breaks during CPR?
Rib fractures are common despite proper technique and considered an acceptable trade-off. Because saving a life is the priority, CPR should not be avoided due to this complication.
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