CARDIO PULMONARY RESUSCITATION:
Cessation of cardiac activity is determined by inability to palpate a central pulse, unresponsiveness and Gnea. CPR consists of measures for establishing and maintaining airway, initiate breathing and providing adequate circulation for issue perfusion. Prompt resuscitative measures can save a life particularly when child is suffering from a salvageable condition. Failure of circulation for more than 3-4 minutes can lead to irreversible cerebral damage, therefore CPR must begin quickly. It is worthwhile to familiarize yourself with correct steps in cardio-respiratory resuscitation.
Common causes of CR arrest include: (i) airway obstruction, (ii) lower Respiratory Tract Infections, (iii) drowning, (iv) anaphylaxis, (v) serious nfections, and (vi) cardiac conditions.
A quick assessment of an unresponsive child would include asking a few questions to establish the etiology and evaluating the stability of the vital signs. Evaluate the level of consciousness, state of airway, breathing, ventilation and circulation.
Initiation of CPR:
A child who is unresponsive should be immediately placed in supine position. Put the ear in front of the mouth and nose of the child so that you can feel the exhaled air, and the respiratory movement can be observed simultaneously. Cardiac status can be assessed by palpating the central pulses like carotid or brachial pulses.