What are the 7 Steps of CPR?

Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) is a vital emergency procedure that can save lives when someone’s heart or breathing stops. Understanding the detailed seven steps of CPR enables you to respond effectively and confidently during a cardiac arrest or respiratory emergency. While CPR is a temporary lifesaving measure, it significantly increases the chance of survival until professional medical help arrives.

This article lists down the essential steps of CPR, providing you with a comprehensive guide to this lifesaving skill.

Step 1: Analyse the Situation and Ensure Safety

Before approaching the casualty, quickly evaluate the environment to ensure it is safe for you and the victim. Look out for hazards such as traffic, fire, electrical wires, or unstable structures. Your safety is paramount—do not put yourself in danger. If the scene is unsafe, call emergency services and wait for professional responders.

Step 2: Check for a Response

Approach the person and softly tap their shoulder while loudly asking, “Are you okay?” or “Can you hear me?” This helps determine if the person is conscious or unconscious. If there is no response, this indicates that immediate action is required.

Step 3: Call for Emergency Help

If the person is unresponsive, call Triple Zero (000) immediately or instruct someone nearby to do so. Provide clear information including your location, the nature of the emergency, and the condition of the person. If you are alone and have a mobile phone, put the call on speaker so you can begin CPR while talking to the operator.

Step 4: Open the Airway

To open the airway, use the head-tilt/chin-lift technique:

• Place one hand on the person’s forehead and gently tilt the head back.
• Use the fingers of your other hand to lift the chin upwards.

This manoeuvre lifts the tongue away from the back of the throat, helping to clear the airway for breathing.

Step 5: Check for Normal Breathing

Look, listen, and feel for normal breathing for no more than 10 seconds:

• Look for chest movements.
• Listen for breath sounds near the mouth and nose.
• Feel for breath on your cheek.

If the person is not breathing or is only gasping (agonal breaths), begin CPR immediately. Do not waste time checking for a pulse; start compressions without delay.

Step 6: Perform Chest Compressions

Chest compressions are the cornerstone of CPR, maintaining blood flow to vital organs:

• Position yourself kneeling beside the casualty.
• Place the heel of one hand on the centre of the chest (lower half of the breastbone).
• Place your other hand on top and interlock your fingers.
• Keep your arms straight and shoulders directly above your hands.
• Compress the chest at least 5 cm but not more than 6 cm deep.
• Perform chest compressions at a rate of 100 to 120 per minute, which is approximately the beat of the song “Stayin’ Alive.”
• Let the chest to fully recoil between compressions to maximise blood flow.

Step 7: Deliver Rescue Breaths

After 30 compressions, give two rescue breaths to oxygenate the lungs:

• Pinch the person’s nose closed.
• Form a tight seal over their mouth with yours.
• Gently blow fresh air steadily into their mouth for about one second, watching for the chest to rise.
• If the chest does not inflate, reposition the head and try again.
• Keep the cycles of 30 compressions and 2 breaths continue.

If you are not able or unwilling to give rescue breaths, performing continuous chest compressions alone is still highly beneficial.

Additional Important Information

• Use an AED (Automated External Defibrillator) if there is one: Turn on the AED and follow voice prompts immediately. AEDs analyse heart rhythm and deliver shocks if necessary to restore normal heartbeat.
• Continue CPR Until Help Arrives: Do not stop CPR unless the person shows clear signs of recovery, you are physically exhausted, or a trained professional takes over.
• Take Formal CPR Training: While understanding the steps is helpful, practical training with certified instructors is essential to perform CPR correctly and confidently.

Why Choose Growth Training Group for CPR Training in Melbourne?

Learning CPR through hands-on training is crucial. Growth Training Group offers comprehensive CPR Training in Melbourne that combines expert instruction, practical exercises, and nationally recognised certification. Their courses prepare you to respond effectively in real-life emergencies, boosting your confidence and competence.

Whether you are a workplace first aider, healthcare professional, or community member, Growth Training Group’s tailored courses attest you gain the skills needed to save lives. Enrol today and empower yourself with this invaluable lifesaving ability.

Knowing the detailed seven steps of CPR can make the difference between life and death. With professional training and practice, you’ll be ready to act swiftly and effectively when it counts most.