Mouth-to-Mouth Resuscitation

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Checking for breathing
Checking for breathing

Mouth-to-mouth resuscitation is one part of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), which also consists of chest compression. CPR is a lifesaving technique that is often used when an individual stops breathing properly or when the heart ceases to beat. This first aid technique can be very helpful in emergency situations, especially when help is not readily available. On the other, mouth-to-mouth is a method of artificial respiration wherein the rescuer presses his or her moth against the mouth of the victim, allowing for passive exhalation to occur, wherein air is forced into the lungs at intervals of several seconds.

 

Mouth-to-Mouth Resuscitation on a Child Age 8 or Older or an Adult

Mouth-to-mouth resuscitation will slightly vary for older children and adults, as compared to infants and children under age eight. If surgical gloves are available, make use of these. The following is the recommended mouth-to-mouth for children age eight and above or adults:

  • Place the victim on a hard, flat surface.
  • Make sure that the airways are clear before proceeding. If an object is present, attempt to remove by sweeping it out with the fingers. If this is not possible and the object is still blocking the airway, perform the Heimlich manoeuvre. If there is vomiting, gently turn the head to the side and sweep the mouth using two fingers. If the victim is having a seizure, do not place fingers in the victim’s mouth.
  • Slightly tilt the head backward to open the airway. To pull the jaw forward, put upward pressure on the jaw.
  • Using the thumb and index finger, pinch the nostrils closed. The rescuer should place mouth tightly over the victim’s mouth. If a mouthpiece is available, use this. Blow two quick breaths and look for the rise of the chest. Release pinch on the nostrils and watch for the chest to fall.
  • Listen for breathing sounds. Try to feel the victim’s breath on own cheek.
  • Repeat procedure if breathing does not commence on its own.

Mouth-to-Mouth Resuscitation on a Child under Age 8 or on an Infant

The following steps are ways for proper administration of mouth-to-mouth resuscitation on a child under age eight or infants:

  • Place the child on a hard, flat surface.
  • Ensure the airway is clear by looking into the mouth and throat. If an object is present, attempt to remove by sweeping it out with the fingers. If this is not possible and the object is still blocking the airway, perform the Heimlich manoeuvre. If there is vomiting, gently turn the head to the side and sweep the mouth using two fingers.
  • Slightly tilt the head back to open the airway.
  • The rescuer should place his/ her mouth tightly over the nose and mouth. Give two quick, shallow breaths. Check for the rise of the chest. Remove mouth and watch for the chest to fall.
  • Listen for breathing sounds. Try to feel the child’s breath on own cheek.
  • Repeat procedure if breathing does not commence on its own.

Mouth-to-mouth is part of a lifesaving first aid technique called CPR that is used for victims that do not breathe properly. Mouth-to-mouth resuscitation for adults and children slightly differ because of the difference in size but both have the same purpose, to restore normal breathing in a victim.

Online Sources:

http://www.thefreedictionary.com/mouth-to-mouth+resuscitation

http://www.health.harvard.edu/fhg/firstaid/mResusc.shtml

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