Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) in an Emergency

Objective:

To provide immediate and effective Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) to individuals experiencing cardiac arrest, ensuring maximum survival chances.

Steps to Follow for CPR in an Emergency:

1. Assess the Situation

• Ensure the scene is safe for both the rescuer and the victim.
• Check if the victim is responsive by tapping on the shoulders and asking loudly, “Are you okay?”
• If unresponsive, shout for help and activate emergency medical services (EMS) or call 911 or 108.

2. Check for Breathing and Pulse (Within 10 seconds)

• Look, listen, and feel for breathing.
• Check the carotid pulse (for adults) or brachial pulse (for infants).
• If no pulse and no normal breathing (or only gasping), begin CPR immediately.

3. Start Chest Compressions (High-Quality CPR)

• Place the heel of one hand in the center of the victim’s chest (lower half of the sternum).
• Place the other hand on top and interlock fingers (for adults and children).
• Compress at least 2 inches (5 cm) deep for adults and children, and about 1.5 inches (4 cm) for infants.
• Perform compressions at a rate of 100–120 per minute.
• Allow full chest recoil between compressions.

4. Provide Rescue Breaths (If Trained to Do So)

• Open the airway using the head-tilt, chin-lift technique.
• Pinch the nose shut and give two rescue breaths, each lasting about one second, ensuring chest rise.
• If the chest does not rise, reposition the airway and try again.

5. Continue CPR in Cycles of 30:2

• 30 chest compressions followed by 2 rescue breaths.
• Continue cycles until:
• The victim shows signs of life (e.g., breathing, movement).
• An Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is available.
• Professional medical help takes over.
• The rescuer is too exhausted to continue.

6. Use an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) If Available

• Turn on the AED and follow voice prompts.
• Attach AED pads to the victim’s bare chest.
• If the AED advises a shock, ensure no one is touching the victim and press the shock button.
• Immediately resume CPR after the shock, starting with compressions.

7. Continue Until Professional Help Arrives

• Keep performing CPR and using the AED as needed.
• If the victim regains consciousness and starts breathing normally, place them in the recovery position (on their side) and monitor until medical help arrives.

Special Considerations:

• Infants & Children: Use two fingers for infants and one or two hands for children. The compression depth should be age-appropriate.
• Drowning or Drug Overdose Victims: Give rescue breaths first before starting chest compressions.
• Pregnant Women: Perform compressions slightly higher on the chest. If possible, position the mother slightly tilted to the left to reduce pressure on the major blood vessels.

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You may like to read these links: 

1. List of All SOPs and Documents for the Animal House Facility

2. List of All SOPs and Documents for In-vivo Laboratory

3. SOP ON FIRST AID FOR THE PRODUCTION UNIT