Hands-Only CPR (broadcast Friday, April 4th, 2008)

This week the American Heart Association released new guidelines for a first aid technique it calls 'hands-only CPR.' Rather than the multiple steps involved in traditional CPR, which includes mouth-to-mouth breathing, the 'hands only' CPR method distills CPR down to just two steps. First, call 911 or send someone to call 911. Second, begin providing high-quality chest compressions by pushing hard and fast in the center of the chest with minimal interruptions. The group recommends the technique for use on adults who suddenly collapse -- infants, children, people found unconscious and not breathing normally, and drowning victims should still get traditional CPR.

In this segment, Ira talks with a representative of the American Heart Association about the change in CPR methods, and why the organization is suggesting the change in procedure. Teachers, find more information about using Science Friday as a classroom resource in the Kids' Connection.

Guests

Mary Fran Hazinski
Senior Science Editor, American Heart Association
Clinical Nurse Specialist
Pediatric Emergency and Critical Care
Vanderbilt Children's Hospital
Nashville, Tennessee