02.01 Brief CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) Overview

Overview

1. This is based on actions IN a healthcare facility – as if you are the nurse and find an unconscious patient.
   1. In the community, the algorithm is slightly different, refer to the American Heart Association for details.

Nursing Points

General

1. Patient found unconscious:
   1. Always assess first
   2. Determine responsiveness (sternal pressure, yelling)
   3. Check for carotid pulse (MAX 10 seconds)
   4. Know/ask if a neck injury is suspected
2. If no pulse
   1. Call for help (Code Button, yell, call light)
   2. Send someone for AED
   3. Begin chest compressions at a rate of 100-120 beats/min
   4. Do NOT delay chest compressions
   5. During chest compression, do not stop unless instructed
      1. Minimizing chest compression interruptions is ESSENTIAL
      2. Push hard and fast
      3. Must allow for recoil
3. Help arrives
   1. Another health care provider will open airway
   2. Use BVM to administer breaths after 30 compressions
      1. 30 : 2 ratio until secured airway
   3. Other health care providers should be attaching the defibrillator pads, ensuring IV access
   4. Do not use the pediatric/child defibrillator pads on an adult
4. 2-minute cycle finishes
   1. Check carotid pulse
   2. Analyze rhythm (AED mode if no ACLS providers present)
5. If shock advised
   1. Resume compressions while defibrillator charges
   2. Clear patient to administer appropriate shock
   3. Immediately resume compressions
6. If pulseless and no shock indicated, immediately resume CPR
7. Begin ACLS algorithms when advanced practitioners available

Nursing Concepts

1. Clinical Judgment
2. Perfusion
3. Oxygenation