20/02/2026
β It's First Aid Friday! β
Today's Topic: When to give CPR π«
It seems pretty straight forward right? But you wouldn't believe how many times we get asked this seemingly very basic question and the amount of angst it causes π«£
When arriving at the scene of any medical emegency, it's imperative we always complete our DRSABCD Management Plan.
Once the threat of any Dangers have been checked, you've had a chance to access the casualty's Response and Sent for emergency medical help (000) it's time to turn your attention to their Airway.
Only when a casualty is unresponsive (does not respond to stimuli), the Airway has been confirmed as clear AND THE CASUALTY IS NOT BREATHING EFFECTIVELY should you roll them on to their back and commence CPR.
'Effective breathing' can refer to a number of situations - the casualty may not be breathing at all, they may be gasping for breath or they may be not breathing normally.
There are 3οΈβ£ key ways to check a casualty's breathing:
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Look for the rise and fall of their chest or upper abdomen
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Listen for the escape of air from their nose and mouth
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Feel for movement of air from their nose and mouth
Should effective breathing not be established, start CPR immediately and continue doing so until further help arrives and takes over, the casualty starts breathing or you're physically unable to continue.
Want to have the confidence and skills required to assess and take action as required in an emergency situation? We can help! Visit π»www.revive2survive.com.au/course-categories