Emergency Response: When to Call for Help During CPR

Understanding the Timing of CPR and EMS Activation

In emergency situations, performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) can be crucial for saving a life. However, knowing when to call for emergency medical services (EMS) is equally important. Below, we outline the best practices to ensure timely and effective response.

Timing for CPR and EMS Activation

According to the latest guidelines, if you are alone and encountering an unresponsive adult, you should immediately call 911 and start CPR without delay.

For infants and children, it is recommended to perform CPR for about 2 minutes or 5 cycles of 30 compressions and 2 breaths before calling for help. This allows you to provide some immediate care before seeking assistance. Continuous compressions are vital to maintain blood flow to the brain and other critical organs until emergency services arrive or the person shows signs of recovery.

Activation of Emergency Services

Even if a person begins to show signs of consciousness or improved breathing, it is crucial to complete the call for emergency services. Consciousness without medical attention can be fleeting, and the condition may worsen rapidly.

Optimal Method for Activation: You can call EMS or use a smartphone on loudspeaker mode next to you while performing CPR. This allows you to start giving instructions to the EM dispatcher as soon as you have a connection. For example, you might say, "Call emergency services immediately, I am performing CPR on an unresponsive person."

Passer-By Assistance and CPR Fatigue

Encourage passers-by to help if someone is available. CPR can be physically demanding, and rest is essential to maintain your effectiveness. Hand-offs are common in emergencies, so if you are unable to continue, ensure that another bystander can take over CPR and you can call for help.

When to Call for Help in CPR

Here are specific guidelines for when to call for help during CPR:

Start CPR immediately upon noticing an unresponsive adult with no breathing and no pulse. For infants and children, perform 2 minutes (or 5 cycles of 30 compressions and 2 breaths) of CPR before calling for help. In any situation, the sooner you can get emergency services on the scene, the better the chances of survival.

Important Reminders: Do not stop CPR until emergency services or a physician instruct you to do so. Activating EMS as soon as possible can significantly improve the chances of survival. Continuous CPR is crucial until healthcare professionals arrive.

Remember, the window of opportunity in a cardiac arrest is very small. Every minute without treatment can decrease the chances of a successful resuscitation. Always prioritize continuous compressions to maintain blood flow until emergency services arrive.