Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) is a vital emergency technique used when someone's heartbeat or breathing has stopped, particularly during cardiac arrest or drowning. CPR helps maintain blood flow to the brain and essential organs until medical help arrives. To perform CPR, first ensure the scene is safe and check the victim's responsiveness by gently shaking them and shouting, "Are you okay?" If the person is unresponsive, call 911 and retrieve an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) if available. Begin chest compressions by placing your hands in the center of the chest, pressing down hard and fast at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute. Alternate cycles of 30 compressions and 2 rescue breaths until emergency services arrive or the person shows signs of life (Mayo Clinic, 2023; Red Cross, 2023).
The Heimlich maneuver is a vital emergency procedure for someone choking and unable to breathe, cough, or speak. If a person is choking, first determine if they can cough or speak. If they cannot, stand behind them and wrap your arms around their waist. Make a fist with one hand, place it just above the navel, grasp it with the other hand, and thrust inward and slightly upward. Repeat this maneuver until the object is dislodged or the person becomes unresponsive. If the latter occurs, begin CPR immediately and call 911 if you haven't already (Emergency Care for You, 2023; Patient, 2023).
In this presentation, I'll show a video demonstration of CPR and the Heimlich maneuver using a doll. This visual aid will help clarify these essential life-saving techniques. For more information, I recommend visiting resources such as the Mayo Clinic (2023), American Red Cross (2023), and the Health and Safety Institute (2023). I also advise enrolling in a local CPR certification course to gain valuable hands-on experience.