Hands-Only CPR

A major change to CPR for adults, and renewed guidelines were announced by the American Heart Association in April 2008. The new method involves using a “Hands-Only” method for CPR. The adult victim should receive 100 rapid deep presses per minute on the center of their chest. It is still crucial to call 911 first if you are alone or if there is someone else available, for them to call immediately. The CPR should be continuous until help arrives or the victim becomes conscious.

Studies have shown that the new method of CPR, hands-only, works just as well as the standard CPR, which is compressions and mouth-to-mouth together, for sudden cardiac arrest in adults. This is good news, due to the fact, that under the traditional standards bystanders would not get involved in helping a victim. If you are not formally trained with the new CPR, don’t worry, you cannot make the situation worse. If you see an adult fall unconscious and they are not responsive, call 911 and then take action. Remember inaction kills.

This new method of CPR is only if you witness the collapse of an adult. Still use the standard method of CPR when it involves infants, children, adults that had near-drowning, drug overdose, or carbon monoxide poisoning. In these cases using the standard method of CPR introduces the needed air into the victim’s lungs and bloodstream.

Even though this new method of CPR is just now being brought to the forefront, surprisingly it has been used longer than you may think. About one year ago I was shown the 100 compressions per minute CPR by Dr. Robert Tober who is the Medical Director of the Collier County EMS in Southwest Florida. This method of CPR was part of the Collier County’s EMS training since April of 2005. He explained that when a person first collapses there is still oxygen in the lungs and blood throughout the body. The priority is to keep the residual oxygen rich blood flowing to the brain.

Also, in speaking with Dr. Tober I learned that throughout his career he has always been on the leading edge of medicine. He was one of the first pioneers in ideas and methods of rapid responses of personal health records. He said the availability of past information is crucial. The problem is not that the people do not understanding this, but just do not follow through and protect themselves with their medical information.

It is vital to have your crucial medical information available at all times. Are you and your loved ones prepared with their personal health records? It is as simple as having a MedFN® account. Having their www.medfn.com alphanumeric access code on you at all times will give you that security. Med File Now® is doing its part to bring safety to you and your loved ones.