Remember when we thought the world was flat? Or when we used leeches to cure the common cold? Okay, maybe that was a while ago, but hey – things change! And in the world of first aid, techniques have certainly evolved over the years.
So, it’s natural to wonder: has mouth-to-mouth CPR gone the way of the dodo? After all, you’ve probably heard whispers about “hands-only” CPR being the new hot thing. Well, Brisbane, it’s time to separate fact from fiction and get the lowdown on this breath-taking topic (pun absolutely intended)!
The Short Answer: Yes, It’s Still Very Much a Thing!
Plot twist! Despite what you might’ve heard at your local coffee shop or scrolled past on social media- mouth to mouth rescue breaths are still required by Australian guidelines.
So why all the confusion? Grab a cuppa, and let’s dive into the why, what, and how of modern CPR.
The Hands-Only Hype
You’ve probably heard about “hands-only” CPR, right? It’s been making the rounds as a simpler method, especially for people who haven’t had time to learn proper CPR. And look, it’s not wrong – chest compressions alone can be lifesaving.
But here’s the kicker: while hands-only CPR is better than no CPR, adding those rescue breaths can make a real difference. It’s like choosing between a meat pie and a meat pie with sauce – both will do the job, but one’s got that extra oomph!
Why Breaths Still Matter
- Oxygen is Crucial: Your body needs oxygen to function, especially your brain. Chest compressions keep blood flowing, but those breaths help refill the lungs with much-needed oxygen. It’s like giving your body a double shot of life!
- Particularly Important for Some: For people who’ve been drowning, choking, or children in cardiac arrest, those rescue breaths can be game-changers. In these cases, it’s not just about keeping the blood moving – it’s about getting oxygen back into the system ASAP.
- Longer Lasting: In situations where help might take a while to arrive (we’re looking at you, remote bush walks), CPR with rescue breaths can be more effective over time. It’s the marathon runner of life-saving techniques.
But What About Germs?
We get it – the idea of mouth-to-mouth with a stranger might seem a bit icky. But here’s the scoop:
- Low Risk: The risk of disease transmission through CPR is actually very low.
- Face Shields FTW: Using a face shield or mask (which we teach you how to use in our courses) reduces that already low risk even further. It’s like a safety bubble for your mouth.
- Benefits Outweigh Risks: When someone’s life is on the line, a small risk is worth taking. Plus, you’ll be the hero of the day and hopefully make nan proud by ending up on the front page of the courier mail.
The Bottom Line
Mouth-to-mouth CPR is still alive and kicking (pun intended) in Australia. While hands-only CPR is better than nothing, combining compressions with rescue breaths is the gold standard when you’re trained and comfortable doing it.
Want to learn how to perform top-notch CPR, including those all-important rescue breaths? Come join us for cpr training! We’ll teach you everything you need to know. You’ll walk out feeling confident and ready to be the superhero Brisbane needs, as well as the one it deserves.
Hi there! I'm Jack Majlinger. I began my first aid journey back in 2012, with my first "first aid" course. It was after a hiking accident where a friend had to be airlifted. Over the years, my first aid skills grew, I volunteered at equestrian events and local shows and became a first aid trainer.
When I'm not working on content, I enjoy spotting birds in the wild and writing jangle pop tunes.
