This graphic from the American Heart Association illustrates its 2010 CPR guidelines, which emphasize chest compressions after collapse.

AHA, ERC Issue New CPR Guidelines

They emphasize performing compressions before rescue breathing and using automated external defibrillators early.

The 2010 cardiopulmonary resuscitation guidelines were posted Monday by the American Heart Association and the European Resuscitation Council, offering clear support for early defibrillation using an AED and also for immediate compressions by lay bystanders. These are the first update since 2005. AHA and the ERC are founding members of ILCOR, the International Liaison Committee on Resuscitation.

"Push fast and firmly, and start immediately," said Professor Bernd Bottiger, chairman of the ERC. "If the victim does not respond or react, press down at least five centimeters on the middle of the chest, at a rate of at least 100 compressions per minute."

The guidelines make it clear that chest compressions, whether by trained or untrained bystanders, are more important than rescue breathing. Bystanders who are trained and willing should combine the two at a ratio of 30 compressions to two breaths, according to the ERC guidelines. Compressions are paramount because even without rescue breathing, the sudden cardiac arrest victim will suffer irreversible brain damage within five minutes after collapse without compressions.

The new ERC Guidelines clearly recommend using AEDs because early defibrillation, in addition to chest compressions, may save the lives of many SCA victims. These guidelines also recommend cooling the arrest victim to 32-34 degrees C (89.6 to 93.2 degrees F) for 12 to 24 hours because this significantly increases the chance of good neurological survival.

About 500,000 people in Europe suffer a sudden cardiac arrest every year. "We will save 100,000 lives per year in Europe if all -- lay and professional people -- take part in this way and care," Bottiger said.

Product Showcase

  • Full Line of Defense Against Combustible Dust Nilfisk

    Nilfisk provides a comprehensive range of industrial vacuums meticulously crafted to adhere to NFPA 652 housekeeping standards, essential for gathering combustible dust in Class I, Group D, and Class II, Groups E, F & G environments or non-classified settings. Our pneumatic vacuums are meticulously engineered to fulfill safety criteria for deployment in hazardous surroundings. Leveraging advanced filtration technology, Nilfisk ensures the secure capture of combustible materials scattered throughout your facility, ranging from fuels, solvents, and metal dust to flour, sugar, and pharmaceutical powders. Read More

  • The MGC Simple Plus

    The MGC Simple Plus is a simple-to-use, portable multi gas detector that runs continuously for three years without being recharged or routinely calibrated after its initial charge and calibration during manufacturing. The detector reliably tests a worksite’s atmosphere for hydrogen sulfide, carbon monoxide, oxygen and combustible gases (LEL). Its durability enables the detector to withstand the harshest treatment and environments, hence earning it an IP 68 rating. The MGC Simple Plus is also compatible with a variety of accessories, such as the GCT External Pump. Visit gascliptech.com for more information. Read More

  • SECUPRO MARTEGO

    FOR HIGHEST DEMANDS. A cutting tool in which function and design go hand in hand. Meet the SECUPRO MARTEGO, our prize-winning squeeze-grip safety knife with fully automatic retractable blade for safety. • Ergonomically friendly trigger mechanism to engage the blade • Durable body made of aluminum • Safer alternative to fixed blade utility knives for general cutting tasks • 9 mm Cutting depth • Easy, tool free blade change Dimensions: L 6.10" L x 0.71" W x 1.91" H Weight: 3.70 oz Cutting Depth: 9 mm Read More

Featured

Artificial Intelligence

Webinars