Performing CPR can improve chance of survival
It’s no secret there are benefits to cardiopulmonary resuscitation, or CPR, when it comes to emergency first aid.
The history of CPR dates back to the 1700s and has been proven to save lives in critical situations. Cardiopulmonary, meaning heart and lungs; “resuscitation,” meaning “to revive,” is performed when a person’s breathing or heartbeat has stopped. According to the American Heart Association, 88 percent of sudden cardiac arrests occur at home leading to the importance for everyone to learn how to perform CPR. Furthermore, it is estimated effective CPR can double or triple a victim’s chances of survival. When it comes to performing CPR on older patients, there is considerable debate on the medical necessity and benefits.
It’s important for patients of a certain age to discuss with their healthcare providers about the benefits and considerations with it comes to CPR. Being informed is the first and most important step in taking control of one’s health care plan and deciding on particular directives when it comes to a medical crisis. According to the AHA, there are guidelines for CPR and emergency cardiovascular care that improves on effectiveness and survival known as the chain of survival. These guidelines include immediate recognition and rapid access, early and rapid CPR with an emphasis on chest compressions, rapid defibrillation, effective advanced care and integrated postcardiac arrest care.
According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, CPR is important when there is a possibility that the person may recover – even including if that person has an advanced life – threatening illness. They state, however, if a person is at the end of their life, CPR may not be the most desirable choice. This stresses the importance again for an older person or patient to be well-informed on the pros and cons of CPR in their health care plan. The AAFP explains the benefits of CPR lie mostly with patients with more adequate health and who are younger, or if it is applied within five to 10 minutes of someone who has stopped breathing or whose heart has stopped beating. They state that though it is still an option for those with a lifethreatening illness or who are dying, the benefits are scarce.
CPR involved mostly chest compressions, but may also include electric stimulation, medication and intubation where a tube is placed down the throat. Some of these details may or may not be known by the individual, which again places an importance on a discussion about CPR before it’s ever needed. Should it be needed, a breathing machine or ventilator may also be necessary. The AAFP lists a number of risks to be aware of as well as benefits, which include the dangers of chest compressions such as a sore chest, broken ribs or collapsed lung. Other risks involve breathing tubes, which usually require medication and the fact that it may have limited survival outcomes.
While the conversation may be uncomfortable, discussing the options of CPR for senior or older adults can provide clarity and understanding during times of crisis and emergency. The goal of the discussion is for the individual to be in charge of their health and for their loved ones to involved and respect their decisions. Depending on the current state of the person’s health, the benefits of CPR versus the risks will vary. The facts may not always be favorable, which is why an extensive and well-informed costbenefit analysis is necessary. Families and health care providers need to have the most current and accurate information in order to make the best decision. It’s important to not only open up a dialogue about CPR and other directives, but to have clarification, compassion and reflection.
Learn more:
The American Heart Association offers a wide variety of information regarding the guidelines for effective CPR as well as trainings and other facts and figures. For this information and other resources, go to www.cpr.heart.org.
