First Aid Responder Level 3 (VTQ)

206 videos, 11 hours and 32 minutes

Course Content

CPR Risks

Video 105 of 206
2 min 25 sec
English
English
Want to watch this video? Sign up for the course or enter your email below to watch one free video.

Unlock This Video Now for FREE

This video is normally available to paying customers.
You may unlock this video for FREE. Enter your email address for instant access AND to receive ongoing updates and special discounts related to this topic.

Risks and Benefits of Bystander CPR

Understanding the Impact of Bystander CPR

Bystander CPR is a crucial intervention during cardiac emergencies, but it's essential to understand the associated risks and benefits.

1. Minimal Risk of Harm

Key Point: Bystander CPR rarely causes serious harm to victims.

  • While CPR may lead to rib fractures or organ damage in rare cases, the benefits outweigh the risks.
  • Providers should not hesitate to initiate CPR due to fears of causing harm, as the person is already in a critical state.

2. Infection Risk and Precautions

Important Consideration: CPR poses an infection risk, but standard precautions mitigate this risk.

  • Infection risk is minimal when there are no body fluids present, but standard precautions should still be observed.

3. Potential Rescuer Injuries

Be Aware: CPR may lead to muscle strain or other injuries in rescuers, though these occurrences are rare.

  • Rescuers experiencing significant symptoms during training should stop and seek medical attention.
  • Manual chest compressions should not be continued during defibrillator shock delivery due to the risk of injury.

4. Psychological Effects

Addressing Concerns: Adverse psychological effects post-CPR are relatively uncommon, but should be addressed if experienced.

  • CPR providers experiencing psychological distress should consult a healthcare professional for support.

Conclusion: Prioritizing Life-Saving Measures

While bystander CPR entails certain risks, its potential to save lives far outweighs these concerns. Providers should be aware of safety measures and seek assistance if needed.