What Are the Key Considerations for External Chest Compression?

Update Date: 2024-07-09 Source: Network

External Cardiac Compression

It is essential to note that for external cardiac compression, the patient should be laid flat on a hard surface to ensure effective compression. During compression, the hands are not pressed simultaneously but in an overlapping manner. Consistency in compression frequency is crucial, avoiding rapid or slow changes. Ensure the correct position for external cardiac compression, with the heel of the palm contacting the lower part of the sternum and the fingertips raised.

1. The compression force must be appropriate, avoiding excessive force that could cause rib fractures or liver rupture, and insufficient force that fails to achieve the purpose of rescue.

2. The patient should lie supine on a hard bed or the ground. If a soft bed is used, a plank should be placed underneath the patient to ensure effective compression. Compression on a soft surface significantly reduces its effectiveness. However, do not delay rescue time in search of a plank. When performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation, loosen the patient's clothing buttons and belts.

3. The rescuer should lean close to one side of the patient's chest. To ensure vertical force application on the sternum, the rescuer can adopt different positions such as kneeling or using a footrest based on the patient's location.

4. Keep the elbow joints straight, with both shoulders positioned directly above the hands, avoiding leaning to one side or swinging left and right. The fingers should not apply pressure to the patient's chest. During the relaxation phase between compressions, the operator should not apply any pressure to allow the chest wall to fully recoil. However, the palm heel should remain on the lower-middle part of the sternum, without leaving the chest wall, to prevent displacement.

5. The patient's head should be lowered appropriately to avoid regurgitation of vomit into the trachea during compression, which can prevent blood flow obstruction caused by the head being higher than the heart level.