5 Top CPR Mistakes

The American Heart Association has found that more than 350,000 people die from out-of-hospital cardiac arrests every year in the United States. That means 958 people die from SCA per day, 40 people per hour, and 1 person per minute. Only one in three victims survives when the arrest is witnessed by a bystander. This is why you should always follow the Chain of Survival in an emergency.

Here are the top 5 mistakes people make when giving cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR):

1. Not getting involved – In an emergency the fight or flight response kicks in, but always try to do the right thing. Remember, the faster you jump in, the better their chances of survival.
2. Not calling 911 – Sometimes it can be scary to contact 911 due to the gravity of the situation. However, first responders need to get there with treatment options as soon as possible.
3. Giving mouth-to-mouth – In April 2008, the American Heart Association revised its recommendations and encouraged bystanders to use “hands-only” CPR.
4. Not knowing what you are doing – Make sure your chest compressions are just below the nipple line, deep (about 2 inches), and fast (100 beats per minute). Be sure to keep your elbows locked and fingers intertwined.
5. Putting yourself in danger – ALWAYS access the situation before beginning CPR. Especially in situations where you are at risk of electrocution, drowning, or other potentially dangerous events.

Although these are common mistakes, they can be easily avoided through training and awareness.

If you still have questions concerning CPR or use of an AED, leave us a comment or email us at customerservice@aedbrands.com