Changes in CPR techniques

The American Heart Association has made some changes in how CPR is done, and its probably different than when you last took a CPR class.

Here is a PDF document that explains what was changed and why. Highlights of the 2005 American Heart Association Guidelines for Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation and Emergency Cardiovascular Care.

The major changes for Lay Rescuers (i.e. not medical professionals) are highlighted on page 4. Two changes that caught my attention are: they do not teach us to feel for a pulse any more, just begin chest compressions. And, they no longer teach rescue breathing without chest compressions. If you do one, you do both.

These are some major changes from the way I've been taught. This year might be a good one for you and your staff to get re-certified in FirstAid/CPR.