Adult basic life support: an updated summary from the recent guidelines on cardiopulmonary resuscitation [CPR]

ABSTRACT

Sudden cardiac death is the most prevalent yet preventable clinical problem. It is estimated to cause 300,000 to 400,000 deaths annually with 63% cardiac deaths. The most important determinant of survival among these patients is the prompt and effective delivery of basic life support at the site or by the first bystander. Although there has been a decline in overall cardiovascular morbidity and mortality but the incidence of sudden deaths from cardiovascular causes has remained constant. In the current era the basic life support not only includes cardiopulmonary resuscitation [CPR] but defibrillation has also been added by using automated external defibrillators. The latest guidelines for CPR published in 2010 by the American Heart Association [AHA] have made substantial changes to the basic life support strategy. The conventional stepwise approach A-B-C has been changed to C-A-B. This mandates the decrease in time to deliver first compression. Look, listen and feel has been omitted to avoid unnecessary delay of the chest compressions. The pulse check parameter has also been diminished for healthcare providers. This article is a review of management of CPR. It scrutinizes current practices and data supporting the use of CPR.