How to Determine if a Patient Requires CPR

Knowing how to assess whether someone needs cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) can be crucial in emergency situations. Proper evaluation ensures timely action and increases the chances of survival. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you make the right decision.

Step 1: Ensure the Environment is Safe

Before approaching the patient, quickly assess the surroundings for any potential dangers such as electricity, fire, gas leaks, or ongoing traffic. If the scene is unsafe, do not attempt to help until the danger has been removed or you can safely approach the individual. Your own safety is essential to avoid becoming another victim.

Step 2: Check for Responsiveness

Gently tap the person on both shoulders and shout loudly near their ears—this is often referred to as the "shout-tap-shout" method. Call out to them to see if they respond. If there is no reaction, this indicates a lack of consciousness. At this point, immediately call emergency services or ask someone nearby to do so.

Step 3: Assess Breathing and Pulse

While checking for responsiveness, observe the person's breathing. Look for normal breathing or any signs of gasping, which can be a sign of cardiac arrest. Next, check for a pulse by placing two fingers on the side of the neck, just beside the windpipe, to feel for the carotid pulse. Do not spend more than 10 seconds trying to locate the pulse.

When to Start CPR

If the person is unresponsive, not breathing normally, or showing only irregular gasping breaths, and no pulse is detected within 10 seconds, it's time to begin CPR. Immediate chest compressions can help maintain blood flow to vital organs and significantly improve the person's chance of survival.