CPR, or cardiopulmonary resuscitation, is a lifesaving technique that is used when someone’s breathing or heartbeat has stopped. It involves a combination of chest compressions and rescue breaths to help restore circulation and oxygenation to the body. Although CPR is a critical skill that everyone should learn, performing CPR on a person with a disability can present unique challenges that require special considerations.
According to the Resuscitation Council UK, the principles of CPR remain the same for all casualties, regardless of whether they have a disability or not. However, there may be some variations in technique and approach that need to be considered. For example, if the person has a physical disability that affects their ability to breathe or move, the rescuer may need to adapt their approach to ensure that the chest compressions and rescue breaths are effective.
It is also important to consider the person’s individual needs and preferences when performing CPR. For example, if the person is deaf or hard of hearing, the rescuer may need to use visual cues or written instructions to communicate effectively. Similarly, if the person has a learning disability or autism, the rescuer may need to adjust their approach to ensure that the person understands what is happening and feels safe and supported throughout the process.
Understanding Disabilities and CPR
Performing CPR on a person with a disability can be different from performing CPR on a person without a disability. It is important to understand the type of disability the person has and how it may affect their breathing and circulation. Disabilities that affect the respiratory system, such as muscular dystrophy or spinal cord injuries, can make it difficult for a person to breathe on their own. Disabilities that affect the circulatory system, such as heart conditions or stroke, can make it difficult for a person’s heart to pump blood effectively.
When performing CPR on a person with a disability, it is important to take into consideration any adaptations or modifications that may need to be made. For example, a person with a physical disability may require assistance with positioning to ensure that their airway is open and that compressions are effective. A person with a hearing impairment may require visual cues or written instructions to understand what is happening during the CPR process.
It is also important to understand that not all disabilities are visible. A person with an intellectual or developmental disability may not be able to communicate their needs or understand what is happening during the CPR process. It is important to be patient and take the time to communicate effectively with the person and any caregivers or support staff who may be present.
Adapting CPR for People with Disabilities
Performing CPR on a person with a disability may require some adaptations to the standard CPR procedure. Here are some tips to help you adapt CPR for people with disabilities:
- Positioning: Position the person in a way that is comfortable and safe for them. For example, if the person is in a wheelchair, transfer them to a flat surface if possible. If not, perform CPR while the person is in the wheelchair.
- Compression: If the person has a spinal cord injury or limited mobility, you may need to adjust the location of your compressions. For example, if the person is lying on their back, you may need to perform compressions on their side or stomach.
- Rescue breaths: If the person is unable to breathe on their own or has a tracheostomy tube, you may need to adapt the rescue breaths. Use a bag-valve mask or a pocket mask to provide rescue breaths.
- Assistance: If the person requires assistance with breathing or has a caregiver, make sure to involve them in the CPR process. They may need to help position the person or provide rescue breaths.
It is important to remember that every person with a disability is unique, and may require different adaptations to the CPR procedure. If possible, communicate with the person or their caregiver beforehand to determine any specific needs or adaptations that may be necessary.
Step-by-Step Guide to Performing CPR on a Person with a Disability
Performing CPR on a person with a disability is similar to performing CPR on a person without a disability. However, there may be some adjustments you need to make based on the person’s specific needs.
- Assess the situation: Check the person’s breathing and pulse. If they are not breathing or if their pulse is absent or irregular, call for emergency medical services immediately.
- Position the person: If the person is in a wheelchair, it may be necessary to transfer them to the floor. Make sure the person is lying on a flat surface and that their head is tilted back to open their airway.
- Begin chest compressions: Place the heel of one hand on the center of the person’s chest and the other hand on top of the first hand. Press down on the chest at a rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute.
- Administer rescue breaths: Tilt the person’s head back to open their airway and pinch their nose shut. Take a deep breath and give two rescue breaths into the person’s mouth.
- Continue CPR: Continue chest compressions and rescue breaths until emergency medical services arrive or the person starts breathing on their own.
It is important to remember that every person with a disability is unique, and their needs may vary. If you are unsure of how to perform CPR on a person with a disability, seek guidance from a medical professional or take a CPR training course that includes training on how to perform CPR on a person with a disability.
Overall, performing CPR on a person with a disability requires some adjustments, but the basic steps are the same as performing CPR on a person without a disability.
By following these steps and seeking guidance from medical professionals, you can help save a life in an emergency situation.
When to Call Emergency Services
If a person with a disability is unresponsive and not breathing normally, it is essential to act quickly and call for emergency help. In the UK, the emergency number to call is 999 or 112.
It is important to remember that every second counts when a person is unresponsive and not breathing. Delaying calling for emergency help can result in further harm or even death.
When calling emergency services, be sure to provide the operator with the person’s location and any relevant information about their condition, such as if they have a disability or any other medical conditions. This information can help emergency responders provide the most effective care possible.
It is also important to stay on the line with the operator and follow their instructions. They may provide guidance on how to perform CPR or other life-saving techniques until emergency responders arrive.
Conclusion
Performing CPR on a person with a disability can be a challenging task, but it is essential to know how to do it correctly. The key to performing CPR is to remain calm, focused, and confident. Remember that every second counts, so act quickly and efficiently.
It is crucial to communicate with the person and their caregivers to understand their medical history, any pre-existing conditions, and any specific needs they may have during the CPR process. Adequate communication skills training is important for healthcare professionals to ensure that CPR decisions are part of a wider discussion about future care.
When performing CPR on a person with a disability, it is essential to adapt the technique to their specific needs. For example, if the person has a spinal cord injury, it may be necessary to modify the position of their head and neck to avoid further damage. Always seek advice from a medical professional if you are unsure about how to proceed.
Remember that CPR is only one part of the emergency response process. It is essential to have a clear understanding of the steps involved in an emergency response and to work together as a team to provide the best possible care to the person in need.
See more on performing adult CPR and child CPR. Skills Training Group delivers CPR training nationwide, please contact us for any of your training needs.
