What is cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) used for?

• A. A technique to revive someone who isn't breathing and has no heartbeat.
• B. A method to measure blood pressure.
• C. A method to treat shock.
• D. A treatment for allergic reactions.

Answer: (A)

CPR is a life-saving procedure used when a person has no heartbeat and isn’t breathing. By performing chest compressions you mimic the heart’s pumping action to keep blood moving, and, if trained, rescue breaths provide oxygen to the lungs. This combination helps maintain circulation and oxygen delivery to the brain and vital organs until the heart can restart or until professional help arrives. It’s specifically for cardiac arrest, not for measuring blood pressure, treating shock, or handling allergic reactions, which require other interventions. If an AED is available, using it as soon as possible greatly improves the chances of revival.