CPR can triple someone’s chances of survival from cardiac arrest, yet common CPR myths stop many people from taking immediate action. As a result, fewer than half of cardiac arrest victims receive the help they need before professional medical help arrives. The facts behind these CPR myths could help you save a life.
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Needs Mouth-to-Mouth to Work
One of the most common CPR myths is that rescue breaths are essential for it to work. The truth is that hands-only CPR is a valid and effective technique for bystanders who do not feel willing to give mouth-to-mouth resuscitation.
In most cases, when a person’s heart stops beating their blood still contains enough oxygen to keep their vital organs alive for several minutes. In instances where someone has also stopped breathing and a lack of oxygen is a factor, rescue breaths are recommended. However, giving some CPR is always preferable than giving no CPR at all and can triple someone’s survival rate when every second counts.
It's Not Worth the Risk of Breaking Ribs
Rib fractures do occur in about 55% of CPR cases, so the fear of breaking one is reasonable. However, without CPR a person’s chances of survival plummet; a broken rib heals in weeks but cardiac arrest without CPR can be fatal.
The benefits of CPR far outweigh the risk of injury. Medical professionals view rib fractures as an unfortunate but sometimes unavoidable sign of proper CPR technique. The person whose life you save will thank you for those bruised ribs.
You Can Be Sued For Performing CPR
Fear of legal consequences stops many bystanders from stepping in during an emergency situation. In Australia, Good Samaritan laws protect people who assist others in emergencies and no one acting in Australia has ever been successfully sued for rendering assistance to someone in need. The legal protections apply provided you act in good faith, did not cause the emergency, and are not under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
AEDs (Defibrillators) are Dangerous
Automated external defibrillators are designed so that anyone can use them. They are safe, easy to operate, and will not deliver a shock unless the device detects a heart rhythm that requires it, making them virtually impossible to use incorrectly. Defibrillation to restart the heart can be inaccurate if someone is touching the body after the pads have been attached.
CPR is Done the Same Way for Everyone
CPR techniques differ based on the age and size of the person in cardiac arrest. Infants under the age of one year old require adjustments to compression depth, hand positioning, and rescue breaths.
Whereas CPR chest compressions for adults require the use of both hands and should be done at a depth of around 5cm, for infants and babies you should instead use two fingers and only press to a depth of around 4cm. Rescue breaths also change, as infant’s developing lungs and airways mean they do not require a head tilt and you should only deliver a gentle puff of air rather than a full breath. Finally, unless you’re a medical professional you should never use an AED on a child under one year old.
You Need to Check for a Pulse First
Older CPR myths emphasised checking for a pulse before starting resuscitation. However, pulse checks by untrained rescuers waste critical time and are unreliable. If someone needs CPR it is best to dive right in without wasting time.
Debunk CPR Myths and Save Lives By Taking a CPR Course
When someone’s heart stops, the actions you take in those first few minutes can mean the difference between life and death. Common CPR myths and misconceptions have kept too many bystanders from performing this life-saving skill when it was needed most. Enrolling in a CPR course can give you the skills and knowledge to respond effectively and save a life.
FAQs
Can I Learn CPR By Taking a First Aid Course?
Yes, all nationally accredited first aid courses in Australia include the CPR component (HLTAID009 Provide Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation).
What's the Difference Between Cardiac Arrest and a Heart Attack?
A heart attack is a circulation problem where a blocked artery stops blood from reaching part of the heart muscle. Sudden cardiac arrest is an electrical problem where the heart suddenly stops beating and pumping blood. A heart attack can sometimes trigger cardiac arrest, but they are distinct conditions requiring different responses.
How Often Should I Renew My CPR Training?
The Australian Resuscitation Council recommends renewing your CPR certification every 12 months, compared to first aid training which should be renewed every three years.