The body needs a constant supply of oxygen to allow vital organs to function properly. Oxygen intake is managed by the respiratory system which is comprised of the airway and lungs. The body’s circulatory system which includes the heart and blood vessels functions to transport oxygen to every cell in the body. If the heart stops functioning this is called cardiac arrest and initiate CPR immediately. If the person is gasping or not breathing adequately – initiate adult CPR for cardiac arrest.
Cardiac arrest occurs when a person is not breathing and has no signs of blood circulation. This means that the heart has stopped pumping blood throughout the body.
What is CPR?
CPR or cardiopulmonary resuscitation is a technique that helps to circulate oxygenated blood throughout the body and delays permanent organ damage. CPR involves two separate components – chest compressions and breaths.
When doing chest compressions – you push the blood in and out of the heart circulating it around the body. When giving breaths, you are providing the casualty with oxygen. When you alternate between chest compressions and breaths, you are performing CPR and you are helping to keep the person alive.