Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is a critical skill that can mean the difference between life and death during cardiac emergencies. However, even trained first aiders can make errors that reduce its effectiveness. Over the last 15 years, we’ve trained thousands of people in CPR at our weekly courses in Port Macquarie and Taree. Over this time, we’ve seen some common mistakes that people often make when performing CPR. Here are the top 10 and how you can avoid them:
1. Poor Chest Compression Depth
First Aiders often perform chest compressions that are too shallow. You need to compress the chest deep enough to compress the heart and circulate blood effectively. For adults, compressions should be at least 5cm. Too shallow, and blood flow won’t reach you patient’s vital organs. Proper training helps you maintain the right depth.
2. Inconsistent Compression Rate
First Aiders often perform their chest compression either too fast or too slow. If you go too slowly, the brain and heart may not receive enough oxygenated blood. If you go too fast, compressions may not allow the heart to refill with blood between compressions. CPR should be performed at a steady pace of 100-120 compressions per minute.
3. Failing to Allow for Full Chest Recoil
Each compression should be followed by allowing the chest to fully recoil. This enables the heart to refill with blood before the next compression. If the chest doesn’t fully rise between compressions, blood circulation is compromised. This mistake is common when rescuers lean too much on the chest.
4. Incorrect Hand Placement
Proper hand placement is crucial for effective compressions. Hands should be positioned in the centre of the chest, on the lower half of the sternum. Placing hands too high reduces effectiveness, while placing them too low can cause damage to the ribs or abdominal organs. Ensuring correct placement maximises the force applied to the heart.
5. Not Giving Effective Rescue Breaths
If providing rescue breaths, ensure the head is tilted back to open the airway, pinch the nose shut, and give breaths that make the chest visibly rise. Each breath should last about one second. Giving too little air won’t oxygenate the body properly, and giving too much can cause air to enter the stomach, increasing the risk of vomiting.
6. Not Calling Emergency Services First
In an emergency, it’s easy to panic and start CPR immediately. However, calling 000 should always be the first step. Emergency medical professionals have the equipment and expertise needed to stabilise the person properly. If you’re alone, put your phone on speaker mode and call for help while starting compressions.
7. Delaying the Start of CPR
Every second counts during a cardiac emergency. When someone collapses and is unresponsive, immediate action is crucial. Hesitating or delaying the initiation of CPR can significantly decrease the victim’s survival chances. Brain cells begin to die within minutes due to a lack of oxygenated blood, making fast and effective CPR vital. Fear of doing something wrong or uncertainty about the situation can cause hesitation, but doing something is always better than doing nothing. If you’re unsure, begin chest compressions while calling for emergency services.
8. Neglecting to Use an AED
An Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is a powerful tool that can restart the heart’s normal rhythm. If one is available, turn it on and follow the instructions. AEDs are designed to be user-friendly and provide audio guidance. Many public places, including shopping centres and gyms, have AEDs, so always look for one.
9. Performing CPR on a Moving Surface
CPR must be performed on a firm, flat surface for maximum effectiveness. If the person is on a bed or soft ground, move them to a hard surface. Compressions on a soft surface are less effective because the body sinks, reducing the force applied to the heart.
10. Failing to Refresh CPR Skills Regularly
CPR guidelines and best practices evolve over time, and skills can fade without practice. Regularly attending a CPR course ensures you stay updated on the latest techniques and increases your confidence in an emergency situation.
Learn CPR with Coastal First Aid
At Coastal First Aid, we offer comprehensive CPR courses in Port Macquarie and Taree to help you build your confidence in lifesaving situations. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned veteran needing a refresher, our experienced trainers provide hands-on training to ensure you’re prepared for emergencies.
Book your CPR course in Port Macquarie or Taree today and gain the skills to save a life!
