If you received CPR certification in 2005 or before, you may not be aware of the recent changes that the American Heart Association (AHA) has made to their CPR guidelines.
The AHA has revised their guidelines to make them less complicated and easier to remember – a move they feel will increase the number of lives saved through CPR. For example, if the victim isn’t breathing and can’t be awakened, assume the person is in cardiac arrest – don’t waste time evaluating the victim’s condition. Immediately give two rescue breaths and then begin chest compressions.
The ratio of chest compressions to rescue breaths has also changed from 15 compressions for every two rescue breaths in the 2000 guidelines, to 30 compressions for every two breaths in the 2005 guidelines.
The new guidelines call for greater use of automatic external defibrillators (AEDs) – which some states now require in health clubs. Rescuers are advised to use only one shock with an AED before resuming CPR, instead of three as previously recommended. Research has shown that most people resumed a normal heart rhythm after one shock, and those who didn’t, had a better chance of responding to another shock after they received CPR.
If you’re not certified to perform CPR or don’t know how to use an AED, it’s a good idea to get the necessary training. Someone’s life may depend on you!
For more details about the new guidelines, visit the American Heart Association’s website at: www.americanheart.org.
Michael Swain is Senior Loss Control Specialist for Markel Insurance Company in Richmond, Virginia. Markel specializes in insurance for health, swim and racquet clubs. He can be contacted at 866.734.4057, or visit www.markelfitness.com.
