(857) 424-0024 0

Common mistakes when performing CPR

Common Mistakes When Performing CPR

Performing CPR correctly is vital to saving a life, yet many people make common mistakes that can reduce its effectiveness or even worsen the situation.

By understanding these mistakes and knowing how to avoid them, you can increase the chances of survival for a victim in need of CPR.

Let’s dive into these practical tips to improve your CPR skills.

Applying Inadequate Compression Depth

Mistake: One of the most frequent errors in CPR is not applying enough pressure when performing chest compressions.

Inadequate depth of compression (less than 2 inches for adults) can prevent sufficient blood circulation to vital organs like the heart and brain.

How to Avoid It:

  • Ensure that you press down at least 2 inches deep when performing chest compressions.
  • Use your body weight (by locking your arms) to ensure the proper depth.
  • Focus on using your shoulders rather than just your arms to apply pressure.
  • Practice chest compressions with a mannequin during CPR training for better understanding.

At CPR Certification Boston, you can receive hands-on training to help you get the correct depth with real-time feedback from instructors.

Not Maintaining the Right Compression Rate

Mistake: Performing compressions either too fast or too slow can be harmful. The ideal compression rate is between 100 and 120 compressions per minute. Going too fast or too slow will not effectively circulate blood.

How to Avoid It:

  • Use a metronome or try to sync compressions to songs like “Stayin’ Alive,” which have a rhythm of around 100-120 beats per minute.
  • Focus on consistency rather than speed. Maintaining a steady rate will be more beneficial than fluctuating.

When you take a course with CPR Certification Boston, you’ll learn strategies to maintain the correct rhythm and be able to practice with tools that help keep you on track.

Not Allowing Full Chest Recoil

Mistake: Some people fail to allow the chest to fully recoil between compressions. Incomplete recoil reduces the return of blood to the heart and can make CPR less effective.

How to Avoid It:

  • After each compression, lift your hands slightly off the chest to allow the chest to fully expand.
  • Avoid resting on the victim’s chest after each compression—maintain a slight distance.
  • Practice the balance between applying pressure and allowing recoil in CPR training.

Instructors at CPR Certification Boston will guide you through techniques to ensure you’re achieving full chest recoil during hands-on practice.

Interrupting Compressions Too Frequently

Mistake: Pausing compressions too often, whether to check for signs of life or perform rescue breaths, disrupts blood circulation and reduces the effectiveness of CPR.

How to Avoid It:

  • Perform chest compressions continuously without pausing until emergency responders arrive or an AED is available.
  • If you need to check for signs of life or provide breaths, try to minimize pauses by working with a partner.
  • If you’re working alone, prioritize maintaining compressions and delay breaths until absolutely necessary.

At CPR Certification Boston, you will learn how to coordinate breaths and compressions, minimizing the time spent without compressions.

Incorrect Hand Placement

Mistake: Incorrect hand placement can lead to ineffective compressions or cause injury. It is essential to place your hands in the correct spot on the chest for optimal effectiveness.

How to Avoid It:

  • Position your hands in the center of the chest, just below the breastbone.
  • Use the heel of one hand and place the other hand on top, interlacing your fingers to prevent movement.
  • Ensure your arms are straight and your shoulders are directly above your hands.

In CPR courses with CPR Certification Boston, instructors will demonstrate the proper hand placement and guide you through the correct technique.

Not Opening the Airway Correctly

Mistake: Not properly opening the airway can prevent oxygen from reaching the lungs, decreasing the chances of survival for the victim.

How to Avoid It:

  • Use the “head-tilt, chin-lift” maneuver to open the airway before providing rescue breaths.
  • Avoid tilting the head too far back, which can cause the tongue to block the airway.
  • If you’re unsure, practice this technique in CPR classes to make it second nature.

At CPR Certification Boston, you’ll receive step-by-step guidance on how to perform this vital maneuver to ensure the airway is clear and effective.

Providing Inadequate Rescue Breaths

Mistake: Delivering too little or too much air during rescue breaths can be harmful. Over-inflating the lungs can lead to gastric inflation, while insufficient air won’t provide enough oxygen.

How to Avoid It:

  • Deliver a rescue breath just enough to see the chest rise.
  • Avoid giving too much air, which can cause the chest to over-expand or lead to choking.
  • Practice delivering the right amount of air with guidance from a CPR instructor.

CPR Certification Boston offers practice sessions that help you master this technique to deliver just the right amount of air when needed.

Failing to Call for Emergency Help Immediately

Mistake: Many people start CPR without calling emergency services first. It’s essential to call for professional help to ensure the victim receives advanced care as soon as possible.

How to Avoid It:

  • Always call 911 or ask someone else to do so before beginning CPR.
  • If you are alone, you can briefly perform CPR (about 2 minutes) before calling for help.
  • Ensure you have an AED on hand if available and make sure someone is ready to use it.

For more mistakes, read: Common Mistakes To Avoid When Performing CPR

Final Thoughts

Performing CPR effectively can mean the difference between life and death. By understanding and avoiding common mistakes, you can improve your CPR technique and ensure you’re ready to act when needed.

Training with a company like CPR Certification Boston will equip you with the skills needed to respond confidently in an emergency.

FAQ

How often should I renew my CPR certification?

It’s recommended to renew your CPR certification every two years to ensure you’re up to date on the latest techniques. You can find renewal courses at CPR Certification Boston.

Can I take CPR certification classes online?

Yes, many CPR courses offer online options. However, hands-on practice is crucial for mastering techniques, so we recommend supplementing online learning with in-person training at CPR Certification Boston.

What should I do if I’m unsure how to perform CPR in an emergency?

If you’re unsure about CPR, try to stay calm and remember that it’s better to start than do nothing at all. For assistance, you can call 911 for guidance while you begin CPR. You can also get trained at CPR Certification Boston.

Back to Blog