5 Common CPR Side Effects and Complications of CPR
Author:
CPR Select
Last updated:
2/16/2025
CPR stands for Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation. It is an emergency treatment used to maintain blood flow and oxygenation to the brain and other vital organs during cardiac emergencies. But just how effective is CPR? What are the CPR side effects and common CPR complications? And, if someone is lucky enough to survive a cardiopulmonary emergency, what does that mean for that person's long-term health? This article delves into the common side effects and complications associated with CPR, offering insights to help individuals understand and navigate the complexities of this life-preserving procedure.
What are the main complications of CPR?
Here are the most common complications or CPR side effects of in and out of hospital Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation:
Aspiration & Vomiting: During CPR, the forceful chest compressions triggers vomiting in the person being resuscitated (revive from unconsciousness or apparent death).
Broken Ribs: The application of force during CPR chest compressions leads to the cracking or fracturing of ribs, particularly in older individuals or those with fragile bones.
Internal Brain Injuries: CPR aims to maintain the oxygen supply to the brain, but it inadvertently cause injuries to the brain if not performed correctly.
Abdominal Distension: In some cases, the forceful chest compressions during CPR leads to abdominal distension, causing the abdomen to swell due to the accumulation of air or other substances in the digestive tract.
Aspiration Pneumonia: Aspiration pneumonia is a severe complication that results from inhaling vomit during CPR.
An untrained person trying to perform CPR might cause several types of damage or complications. While there is an increased risk of CPR complications with deeper chest compressions, it is vital to realize that CPR-related injuries or CPR side effects were, by and large, not fatal.
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Vomiting during CPR is a frequently encountered complication and poses a significant risk to the cardiac arrest victim. When a person experiences cardiac arrest, they are unconscious and unable to clear any vomit that occurs. If the vomit is not promptly removed, it can be aspirated, meaning it is inhaled into the lungs. This has dire consequences as it obstructs the airway and leads to severe infections.
Aspiration pneumonia is a potential outcome of this scenario. When foreign material, such as stomach contents, enters the lungs, it creates an environment ripe for infection. Bacteria present in the stomach leads to a serious lung infection, exacerbating the already critical condition of the individual. Aspiration pneumonia further complicate the recovery process, emphasizing the critical importance of rapid and effective airway management during CPR to prevent such complications.
2. Broken Ribs and Skeletal Chest Injuries
CPR requires forceful chest compressions to maintain blood circulation, often leading to rib fractures and other skeletal injuries. The mechanical stress on the chest wall results from the downward force applied to the sternum, which transfers pressure to the ribs and costal cartilage. Elderly individuals and those with osteoporosis are more susceptible due to reduced bone density and stiffened cartilage. While these fractures can be painful, they are an expected outcome when performing high-quality compressions that increase survival rates.
How Do Compression Forces Affect the Chest Wall?
The chest wall consists of the sternum, ribs, costal cartilage, and intercostal muscles, all designed to protect internal organs while allowing movement for breathing. When performing CPR:
The sternum compresses downward, forcing the ribs to bend and absorb the pressure.
Ribs near the sternum (anterior ribs) are more rigid and prone to breaking, while posterior ribs have greater flexibility.
Cartilage stiffens with age, reducing shock absorption and increasing fracture risk.
Why Are Certain Bones and Organs More Vulnerable?
The ribs, sternum, lungs, heart, and major blood vessels are affected by CPR due to their anatomical structure and placement. The ribs (especially 3-6) are the most frequently fractured since they lie directly under the compression point. The sternum is at risk, particularly in older adults with calcified cartilage. The lungs and heart may sustain minor injuries if compressions are too deep or improperly placed, and in rare cases, excessive force may affect blood vessels like the aorta or coronary arteries. The likelihood of injury depends on bone density, chest wall flexibility, age, and preexisting conditions.
What Factors Influence the Risk of Injury?
Chest Wall Stiffness – A stiffer chest wall increases the force transmitted to the bones, leading to fractures.
Bone Density – Low-density bones, as seen in osteoporosis, are more likely to break under pressure.
Compressor Technique – Proper hand placement, compression depth, and full recoil help reduce unnecessary skeletal stress.
Patient Size and Body Composition – Individuals with lower body fat or less muscle mass have less natural cushioning.
CPR Duration and Intensity – Longer resuscitation efforts increase the cumulative stress on the chest wall.
Although CPR-related injuries are a recognized risk, the primary goal is to restore circulation and oxygenation. Proper training, awareness of anatomical differences, and high-quality CPR techniques help maximize effectiveness while minimizing injury, ultimately improving the victim’s chances of survival.
3. Internal Brain Injuries
CPR, while crucial in maintaining blood circulation, still result in potential complications, particularly concerning the brain. During CPR, the brain receives approximately 5% less oxygen than usual, which, over time, increases the risk of brain damage. This risk becomes more significant the longer the heart remains stopped, with the window for brain damage often falling within 4 to 6 minutes after cardiac arrest. Such damage have profound and lasting effects on a person's health, potentially leading to long-term complications.
What Protocols Exist to Minimize Neurological Damage After CPR?
Hypoxic-ischemic brain injury (HIBI) is a major concern after cardiac arrest, with survival rates dropping significantly if cerebral perfusion is not restored quickly. Targeted temperature management (TTM) is the gold standard in preventing secondary brain damage. Key Post-Resuscitation Neuroprotective Protocols include:
Targeted Temperature Management (TTM): Maintaining core temperature at 32-36°C (89.6-96.8°F) for 24-48 hours reduces metabolic demand and inflammation.
Hemodynamic Optimization: Ensuring mean arterial pressure (MAP) >65 mmHg to maintain cerebral perfusion.
Neuromonitoring: Continuous EEG to detect seizures (common in post-cardiac arrest syndrome).
Controlled Oxygenation and Ventilation: Avoiding hyperoxia or hypocapnia (PaO2: 94-98 mmHg, PaCO2: 35-45 mmHg).
Sedation and Neuroprotection: Use of propofol or dexmedetomidine to prevent agitation and secondary brain injury.
By implementing early goal-directed therapy and evidence-based resuscitation protocols, healthcare providers can improve survival and neurological outcomes in post-CPR patients.
4. Abdominal Distension
Abdominal distension is another common side effect of CPR. As air is forcefully pushed into the lungs during chest compressions, it leads to the patient's abdomen becoming bloated and filled with air. This distension compresses the lungs, making it more challenging to ventilate effectively. Additionally, a bloated abdomen increases the risk of vomiting, further complicating the resuscitation process. Responders must be prepared to address these challenges promptly, balancing the need for effective ventilation with the potential for abdominal distension during CPR.
5. Aspiration Pneumonia
Aspiration pneumonia is a serious complication in post-cardiac arrest patients due to gastric content aspiration during CPR or post-intubation regurgitation. It results from the inhalation of vomit or foreign objects, such as teeth, into the lungs.This condition poses a threat to the health of a cardiac arrest patient and complicates their recovery, potentially even leading to fatal outcomes, despite surviving the initial CPR intervention. Up to 25% of post-arrest patients develop pneumonia, increasing morbidity and mortality.
What Are the Best Practices in Monitoring Aspiration Pneumonia after CPR?
Monitoring Best Practices include:
Clinical Assessment – Watch for fever, tachypnea, productive cough, or worsening oxygen saturation.
Chest Imaging – Use chest X-rays or CT scans to detect infiltrates, particularly in dependent lung regions.
Laboratory Markers – Monitor white blood cell count, C-reactive protein (CRP), and procalcitonin to assess infection severity.
Oxygenation & Ventilation – Continuously track oxygen saturation (SpO₂) and arterial blood gases (ABG) to detect respiratory distress early.
Hemodynamic Monitoring – Monitor blood pressure and heart rate to identify early signs of sepsis.
How Is Aspiration Pneumonia Treated After CPR?
Early Empiric Antibiotic Therapy: Initiate broad-spectrum antibiotics such as piperacillin-tazobactam, cefepime + metronidazole, or carbapenems. Adjust antibiotics based on culture results and clinical response to prevent resistance.
Respiratory Support: Non-invasive ventilation like BiPAP or high-flow oxygen for mild to moderate cases. Mechanical ventilation if respiratory failure or severe hypoxemia develops.
Pulmonary Hygiene & Supportive Care: Chest physiotherapy, suctioning, and postural drainage to remove secretions. Bronchodilators if wheezing or bronchospasm occurs.
Preventing Secondary Complications: Elevate the head of the bed and conduct swallowing evaluations in extubated patients. Early mobilization to reduce the risk of ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP).
Strict monitoring and timely treatment reduce mortality and improve post-resuscitation recovery in patients with aspiration pneumonia.
In light of these potential CPR side effects, it becomes clear that surviving CPR does not guarantee an individual's long-term health and quality of life. The aftermath of CPR leaves lasting physical and psychological impacts. Beyond the physical complications, the psychological ramifications of a near-death experience is profound. Survivors grapples with stress, anxiety, depression, and other psychological disorders, further emphasizing the importance of comprehensive post-CPR care and support to address both the physical and emotional aspects of recovery.
How Do CPR Complications Differ Across Age Groups?
CPR complications vary significantly among pediatric, adult, and elderly patients due to differences in bone structure, chest wall flexibility, and preexisting health conditions. The likelihood and severity of injuries depend on factors such as ribcage composition, underlying diseases, and the force required for effective compressions.
What CPR Complications Are Common in Pediatric Patients?
Infants and children have a highly flexible ribcage with a greater proportion of cartilage, reducing the risk of rib fractures but increasing the likelihood of internal organ injuries. Studies indicate that rib fractures occur in only 1-2% of pediatric CPR cases, but complications such as lung contusions, cardiac injuries, and liver lacerations are more frequent. Congenital conditions like pectus excavatum (sunken chest) or congenital heart defects may also heighten the risk of organ damage. Neonates are particularly vulnerable to airway trauma and gastric insufflation due to improper ventilation techniques.
What Are the Most Common CPR Injuries in Adults?
Adults experience a higher incidence of rib and sternal fractures, with studies estimating that 30-60% of cases involve at least one broken rib. Since effective chest compressions require a depth of at least 2 inches (5 cm), the force applied increases the risk of skeletal trauma. Those with prior chest surgeries (e.g., open-heart surgery, thoracic trauma) face a greater risk of re-fracturing the sternum or ribs. While adults are less likely than children to suffer organ injuries, rare but severe complications include vascular damage, aortic dissection, and coronary artery rupture.
Why Are Elderly Patients at Higher Risk for CPR Complications?
The elderly population experiences the highest rate of CPR-related injuries, mainly due to osteoporosis and reduced chest wall compliance. Studies show that over 80% of elderly patients suffer from rib fractures following CPR. Fragile bones and decreased cartilage elasticity make the chest wall more susceptible to fractures, leading to a higher likelihood of punctured lungs and internal bleeding. Additionally, those with osteopenia, kyphosis, or prior rib fractures are at increased risk. Despite these complications, immediate CPR remains critical, as survival rates drop significantly without early intervention.
How Do Preexisting Conditions Affect CPR Outcomes?
Patients with osteoporosis, previous chest surgeries, or congenital chest abnormalities have a higher risk of complications during CPR. Osteoporosis weakens bones, making them more prone to multiple rib fractures even with standard compression force. Individuals with a history of open-heart surgery or chest trauma have weakened sternal structures, increasing the risk of re-fractures and sternal separation. Congenital conditions such as pectus excavatum or Marfan syndrome may alter chest anatomy, affecting both compression effectiveness and injury risk.
Understanding age-related anatomical differences and preexisting conditions, allows you to adjust CPR techniques to improve survival rates while minimizing injury risks.
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Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation manually circulates oxygen-rich blood throughout the body through chest compressions, effectively substituting the heart's pumping action. Additionally, CPR includes rescue breaths, which deliver oxygen directly into the lungs, ensuring vital oxygenation when the person is not breathing or breathing inadequately. This approach safeguards vital organs, particularly the brain, from oxygen deprivation and aims to mitigate the risk of brain damage.
CPR is beneficial in the event of a cardiac arrest, which can be caused by a heart attack. However, it’s important to differentiate between a heart attack and cardiac arrest:
Heart Attack: A heart attack (myocardial infarction) occurs when blood flow to a part of the heart muscle is blocked. The person experience chest pain, shortness of breath, and other symptoms. If the heart is still beating but not effectively pumping blood, CPR is not needed but medical help is crucial.
Cardiac Arrest: Cardiac arrest occurs when the heart stops beating altogether. In this case, the person has lost consciousness and is not breathing normally. CPR is essential to provide blood flow and increase the chances of survival until advanced medical help arrives.
CPR is a bridge to professional medical assistance, buying precious time until emergency services arrive to address the underlying cause of the cardiac or respiratory arrest.
Does CPR always work in emergencies?
No, CPR does not always work. While CPR can be lifesaving, its success depends on factors like how quickly it’s started, the quality of the compressions, and the patient's health condition. In some cases, especially if CPR is delayed or the patient has underlying health issues, CPR may not revive the patient. However, even when CPR does not result in immediate recovery, it may increase the chances of survival until further medical help arrives.
What happens if CPR is ineffective?
Ineffective CPR can result in a lack of adequate oxygen supply to the brain and other organs, which can lead to permanent damage or even death. If CPR is performed incorrectly, such as with insufficient depth or frequency of compressions, it may not achieve the intended benefit and could cause additional harm.
What are the primary contraindications for CPR?
There are certain contraindications or situations where CPR is not recommended or appropriate. These contraindications include:
Decomposed or Clearly Irreversible Death: If a person is clearly deceased, such as in cases of advanced decomposition or rigor mortis, CPR is not effective, and it is not recommended.
Do-Not-Resuscitate (DNR) Orders: Some individuals have a legally documented Do-Not-Resuscitate (DNR) order, indicating their explicit wish not to receive CPR in the event of cardiac arrest. In such cases, healthcare providers should respect the person's wishes and not initiate CPR.
Rigor Mortis: Rigor mortis is the stiffening of muscles after death. When rigor mortis is present, it indicates that CPR is unlikely to be successful, and it may not be initiated.
Signs of Death: If there are clear signs of irreversible death, such as dependent lividity (blood pooling in the lowest parts of the body), rigor mortis, or decapitation, CPR is generally not appropriate.
Terminal Illness with Comfort Measures Only: In cases where a person is under hospice or palliative care with a focus on comfort measures only and not life-prolonging interventions, CPR is contraindicated based on the individual's wishes and the treatment plan.
CPR will not be effective if the patient has a pulse and is breathing. CPR will not be beneficial and potentially cause harm.
How Are CPR-Related Injuries Managed Medically?
CPR-related injuries are treated based on their severity. Minor injuries like bruises, rib fractures, and mild lung bruising are managed with pain relief, oxygen therapy, and breathing exercises. Doctors monitor patients closely to ensure no complications develop. More serious injuries, such as lung collapse, internal bleeding, or major fractures, may require more advanced care, including blood transfusions or ventilator support. The main goal is to reduce pain, prevent complications, and support recovery while ensuring that the benefits of CPR outweigh the risks.
When Is Surgery Needed Instead of Conservative Treatment?
Doctors decide on surgery based on the severity of the injury, the patient’s condition, and how well they respond to initial treatment.
Injuries That Heal Without Surgery:
Rib fractures: Treated with pain medication (NSAIDs or opioids) and breathing exercises to prevent lung infections.
Minor sternal fractures: Managed with rest and physical therapy to improve mobility.
Mild lung injuries:Oxygen therapy or non-invasive ventilation helps with breathing.
Internal injuries that are not life-threatening: Patients are closely monitored for complications.
Injuries That Require Surgery:
Flail chest (multiple broken ribs moving abnormally): Needs rib fixation surgery to stabilize breathing.
Severe sternal fractures affecting circulation or breathing: May require surgical plating.
Collapsed lung (pneumothorax) or internal bleeding (hemothorax):Chest tube insertion or surgery to remove trapped air or blood.
Life-threatening heart or blood vessel injuries:Emergency open-heart surgery is needed to restore circulation.
Does Cardiac Arrest Survivors get back to normal after CPR?
Unfortunately, most out-of-hospital cardiac arrest victims do not survive after the arrest. Those with complex medical problems are much less likely to recover fully. It is crucial that you know that patients are often critically unwell after CPR and needs more treatment in a coronary care or intensive care unit to recover. In addition, cardiac arrest survivors report cognitive impairment, restricted mobility, depression, and restricted societal participation after hospital discharge.
Many patients survive CPR but don’t return to their physical or mental health before CPR. As a result, some of them needs a lot of rehabilitation. However, some clinical studies found improved outcomes in patients associated with therapies. In other cases, some patients go into a coma from which they might not recover or suffer from brain damage.
Cardiac Arrest Statistics
According to the most recent statistical analysis by the American Heart Association, 88% of out-of-hospital cardiac arrests happen at home, where there are no doctors or nurses, which is why it is so important that everyone be skilled in providing CPR. CPR training programs are designed to educate participants about both the techniques and potential CPR complications.
The rescuer must continue the CPR until the victim has a return of spontaneous circulation or ROSC. The average bystander skilled in CPR triples a victim’s chance of surviving an out-of-hospital cardiopulmonary emergency. However, the chances of receiving CPR from a non-professional in an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest situation is only approximately 32%.
Furthermore, of those victims who receive CPR outside of a hospital, less than 8% survive. According to the National Institute of Health, approximately 15% of patients are resuscitated and survive discharge in a hospital setting. A number that has remained relatively stable over the past three decades.
So, a 15% chance of survival is not bad. But what really happens during CPR? Cardiopulmonary resuscitation is a harsh medical intervention with multiple side effects from receiving it. There are mechanical chest compression devices that are as effective as properly executed manual compressions and minimizes the impact of performance error and fatigue.
In the elderly, rib fracture is significantly more common due to the brittleness and weakness of their bones.
Cardiac arrest survivors report cognitive impairment, restricted mobility, depression, and restricted societal participation after hospital discharge.
Neurological status is a major determinant of overall functional outcome.
Post–cardiac arrest care is a critical component of advanced life support.
Most deaths caused by HIBI result from the withdrawal of life-sustaining treatment following prognostication of a poor neurological outcome.
Prospective studies found improved outcomes in patients associated with therapies.
How Do CPR Complications Differ from Cardiac Arrest Outcomes?
CPR complications occur due to the forceful chest compressions and ventilation required during resuscitation, while cardiac arrest outcomes result from prolonged oxygen deprivation before CPR begins. Injuries such as rib fractures, lung contusions, internal organ damage, and aspiration pneumonia are directly caused by CPR. In contrast, conditions like hypoxic brain injury, multi-organ failure, and metabolic imbalances stem from the lack of circulation and oxygen during cardiac arrest. Differentiating between these helps guide proper treatment and patient care.
How does CPR help during a cardiac arrest?
CPR helps during a cardiac arrest by manually maintaining blood flow to vital organs, especially the brain and heart. During cardiac arrest, the heart stops pumping blood effectively. CPR's chest compressions generate artificial circulation, delivering oxygenated blood throughout the body, which helps prevent brain damage and buy time until advanced medical care arrives or an automated external defibrillator (AED) can be used to restart the heart.
How long does the brain stay alive after the heart stops?
The brain survive for up to about 4-6 minutes after cardiac arrest. If CPR is performed within six minutes, the brain survives the lack of oxygen. After about six minutes without CPR, the brain begins to die.
What is the survival rate after CPR?
A review of CPR outcomes studies reported that an average of 15% of patients experiencing arrest survive until hospital discharge (3%-27%). Furthermore, this long-term success rate has remained stable for 30 years.
How long do sternum fractures take to heal?
Most sternal fractures heal on their own without splinting or any other treatment. However, complete recovery usually takes 8 to 12 weeks.
How long do you do CPR before calling time of death?
The decision to call time of death during CPR is made by healthcare professionals and depends on various factors, including the cause of the cardiac arrest and the person's response to CPR. There is no fixed time limit for CPR, and efforts continues for an extended period if there's a chance of reversing the underlying issue. However, if the cause is deemed irreversible, healthcare providers eventually decides to stop resuscitation efforts, considering the individual's overall condition and the likelihood of success. CPR should be initiated promptly in a cardiac arrest situation, and the decision to continue or stop is made by trained professionals following established guidelines.
How to avoid complications while performing CPR?
To avoid complications during CPR, it's crucial to follow proper training, which includes learning from reputable organizations like CPR Select. Before initiating CPR, assess the scene for safety hazards to ensure your own well-being. Use correct technique, maintaining proper compression depth and rate, as per the guidelines you've learned. Minimize interruptions in compressions to sustain blood flow, and if available, utilize an automated external defibrillator (AED) following its instructions meticulously.
Is there a risk of legal issues after performing CPR?
Yes, there is a risk of legal issues after performing CPR, though Good Samaritan laws generally provide protection for individuals providing assistance during emergencies. These laws vary by jurisdiction but are intended to encourage bystanders to help without fear of legal repercussions. However, it's vital to adhere to your training and operate within your scope of practice to minimize potential risks associated with legal liabilities.
Can CPR cause internal bleeding?
Yes, CPR potentially cause internal injuries, including bleeding, though such occurrences are relatively rare. The risk of internal bleeding is heightened if CPR is performed incorrectly or on individuals with underlying health conditions. Proper CPR training and adherence to the latest CPR guidelines helps minimize this risk.
How often do CPR complications occur?
CPR complications are relatively rare, especially when performed by trained individuals according to established guidelines. However, the risk of complications increases if CPR is performed incorrectly or by untrained responders. Despite the potential for complications, the benefits of CPR in saving lives far outweigh the risks.
Are there complications specific to CPR in children?
Yes, pediatric CPR presents unique challenges and risks due to anatomical differences and variations in physiology compared to adults. Children have smaller chests and different airway structures, which affects the effectiveness of CPR techniques. Therefore, it's essential for responders to receive specific training in pediatric CPR to minimize complications and optimize outcomes in this population.
Can CPR cause permanent brain damage?
No, CPR itself is not the cause of permanent brain damage. The primary concern is the lack of oxygen to the brain before and during the cardiac arrest. Permanent brain damage occurs if the brain is deprived of oxygen for too long. According to the American Heart Association, brain damage starts to occur within 4 to 6 minutes after the heart stops. CPR helps to maintain some blood flow and oxygen delivery to the brain, potentially reducing the risk of brain damage.
Are there specific conditions that increase the likelihood of CPR complications?
Yes, conditions like osteoporosis, severe chest trauma, or certain congenital chest abnormalities increases the likelihood of complications from CPR. A study published in the journal Resuscitation found that the rate of rib fractures after CPR is between 13% and 97%, with elderly patients being at higher risk due to conditions like osteoporosis .
Is the success rate of CPR significantly different in hospitals compared to out-of-hospital scenarios?
Yes, the success rate of CPR is significantly higher in hospitals compared to out-of-hospital scenarios. In-hospital cardiac arrest (IHCA) has a survival rate of approximately 25%, whereas out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) has a much lower survival rate of about 10% . This difference is largely due to the immediate availability of advanced medical interventions and trained healthcare professionals in hospitals.
Can pre-existing medical conditions affect the severity of CPR side effects?
Yes, pre-existing medical conditions such as osteoporosis, bleeding disorders, or previous chest surgeries affects the severity of CPR side effects. A review in the Journal of the American Medical Association reported that up to 30% of patients with bleeding disorders experienced significant bleeding complications after CPR .
Do mechanical chest compression devices reduce the risk of CPR-related injuries compared to manual CPR?
Yes, mechanical chest compression devices reduces the risk of CPR-related injuries compared to manual CPR. They provide more consistent and effective compressions compared to manual CPR. They are designed to deliver optimal depth and rate, which help improve outcomes. However, they are not completely risk-free. Studies have shown that mechanical devices reduce the risk of some injuries, such as rib fractures and sternal fractures, but does not eliminate them entirely.
Can CPR cause gastric distention?
Yes, CPR causes gastric distention, particularly when rescue breaths are administered. Gastric distention will most likely occur when breaths are delivered too forcefully or improperly, causing air to enter the stomach instead of the lungs.
Is gastric distention common during CPR?
Gastric distention can occur during CPR, especially if rescue breaths are administered too forcefully or if the airway is not properly opened. When air enters the stomach instead of the lungs, it leads to bloating or gastric distention, which can complicate the resuscitation effort.
What should be done if gastric distention occurs during CPR?
If gastric distention occurs, adjust the technique to provide gentler breaths, ensuring the patient's head is tilted back to open the airway. Avoid excessive air pressure, as too much force increases the risk of air entering the stomach rather than the lungs. If the patient vomits, quickly clear the airway to prevent aspiration and continue CPR if necessary.
What are the long-term effects of injuries caused by CPR?
The long-term effects of injuries caused by CPR varies, but they are relatively rare. In most cases, injuries such as rib fractures or chest wall trauma heal without significant long-term consequences. However, in rare instances, individuals experiences chronic pain or other complications related to CPR. Overall, the long-term effects of CPR-related injuries are uncommon and depend on factors such as the severity of the injury and the individual's health status.
What is the proper technique for safe CPR?
The proper technique for safe CPR involves a combination of chest compressions and rescue breaths (if trained to do so).
To perform chest compressions, place the heel of one hand on the center of the person's chest, interlock the fingers of your other hand on top.
Compress the chest to a depth of at least 2-2.4 inches for adults and 1/3 the depth of the chest for children.
Maintain a compression rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute.
If trained to provide rescue breaths, ensure a tight seal over the person's mouth and nose and deliver two breaths after every 30 compressions.
Understanding the correct CPR steps helps minimize the risk of CPR complications during an emergency.
How has CPR technique evolved to reduce complications?
CPR techniques have evolved over time through research and clinical experience to improve outcomes and reduce complications. For example, guidelines have been updated to emphasize the importance of high-quality chest compressions, including proper compression depth and rate. The introduction of automated external defibrillators has played a significant role in improving outcomes by allowing for early defibrillation in cases of cardiac arrest, which increases the chances of survival.
What are the psychological effects on a person after performing CPR, especially if complications occur?
Performing CPR, especially in high-stress situations or when complications arise, leads to significant psychological effects. Many responders experience anxiety, stress, or guilt, particularly if the outcome is unfavorable. Studies show that post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and emotional distress are common among those who have performed resuscitation. The prevalence of these psychological disorders varies, with healthcare providers and lay rescuers both at risk.
How Can Responders Manage Psychological Stress After CPR?
Responders can manage psychological stress after CPR by seeking debriefing sessions, peer support, or professional counseling is essential in managing emotional distress. Follow-up care, including structured psychological support programs, helps mitigate long-term effects on quality of life. Understanding the physiological reasons behind CPR complications through training can also reduce emotional burden by setting realistic expectations for outcomes.
Is CPR training essential to prevent complications?
Yes, CPR training is essential to prevent complications. Proper technique reduces the risk of injuries like rib fractures and gastric distention. CPR Training helps you learn the correct compression depth, rate, and methods for administering rescue breaths, which increases the likelihood of effective CPR and minimizes unintended harm to the patient.
What are the Risks Associated with CPR?
Movie scenes influence many people’s idea of CPR, where successful resuscitation always happens, and people recover swiftly. But, in reality, this isn’t consistently the case. The human brain may not supply enough blood flow if the heart isn’t beating properly. Some human brain damage still occurs even if the CPR successfully gets the heart beating again by performing the correct chest compression rate for adults. In addition, if severe coronary artery disease is present, it triggers ventricular fibrillation or abnormal heart rhythms. If you’re in a public area CPR and an automated external defibrillator helps.
On the other hand, if CPR is given and successful, the recovery of cardiac arrest survivors will depend on several things, such as what caused it and how healthy they were when the cardiac arrest happened. After successful resuscitation, some people will fully recover, but some will still be very unwell and need more treatment. That’s why post-cardiac arrest care is a critical component of advanced life support. Unfortunately, there are cases where some patients will never get back to their health level before the arrest. In addition, CPR is much less likely to work if you have a long-term or chronic condition or a terminal illness.
Learning CPR is a life-saving skill, but finding the time and resources to attend a traditional CPR class is a challenge. Fortunately, many organizations now offer online CPR class free of charge, making it more accessible for people to learn the necessary skills from the comfort of their own homes.
Sources:
Hoke, R. S., & Chamberlain, D. (2004). Skeletal chest injuries secondary to cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Resuscitation, 63(3), 327-338.
Daya, M. R., Schmicker, R. H., Zive, D. M., et al. (2015). Out-of-hospital cardiac arrest survival improving over time: Results from the Resuscitation Outcomes Consortium (ROC) Epistry–Cardiac Arrest.JAMA, 313(13), 1378-1387
Perkins, G. D., Lall, R., Quinn, T., et al. (2015). Mechanical versus manual chest compression for out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (PARAMEDIC): A pragmatic, cluster randomised controlled trial.Circulation, 132(23), 2075-2082
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