MEPX
Chapter 3 of 10All chapters
  1. 1First principles
  2. 2Someone unresponsive
  3. 3CPR and defibrillators
  4. 4Choking
  5. 5Bleeding and wounds
  6. 6Burns and scalds
  7. 7Medical emergencies
  8. 8Everyday injuries
  9. 9Kit and preparation
  10. 10Knowing your limits

Chapter 3 of 10

CPR and defibrillators

Hands on the chest.

Compressions

Centre of the chest, heel of one hand with the other on top, 100 to 120 per minute, 5 to 6 cm deep, letting the chest fully recoil. Untrained bystanders should do compressions only.

  • Broken ribs are a known consequence and not a reason to stop.
  • Swap with someone else every two minutes if you can; quality falls with fatigue.

Defibrillators

Public defibrillators talk you through every step and will not shock a heart that does not need it. Using one as early as possible is the single largest factor in survival.