Why Every Parent Must Learn CPR
Your kid’s health is extremely important. Having your child’s pediatrician on speed dial is awesome. But what happens in emergency situations? What happens if your child suddenly stops breathing? Do you know the steps you need to take to possibly save your child’s life? As a parent, it’s important that you have basic knowledge regarding CPR. In this article, we’ll outline what you’ll learn in a CPR class. But first we’ve listed the reasons why this skill is vital for every household.
What Can Cause Your Child to Stop Breathing?
There are many reasons why your little one’s heartbeat can suddenly stop. These reasons include but aren’t limited to the following.
Suffocation
Children have very inquisitive minds and they tend to play with anything and everything in sight. Unfortunately, some objects may be suffocation hazards. Common examples of such items include plastic bags or blankets. Covering their faces for even a few minutes with minimal breathable air can prove to be fatal.
Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)
Closely associated with suffocation is Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). In 2017, there were 3600 deaths reported as a result of SIDS. These deaths are common in younger babies and are as a result of accidental suffocation—or strangulation—while sleeping.
Choking
It’s not uncommon for children to place harmful objects in their mouths as they play. Something such as a small sweet or toy can unfortunately, cause choking if swallowed.
Asthma
Certain medical conditions such as severe asthma can cause breathing problems for your little one. You’ll need to know what steps to take to resuscitate your child in time when this happens.
Drowning
A fun day at the beach can turn into a tragic experience if your child nearly drowns. Having CPR-related knowledge will significantly help you in such cases.
What You’ll Learn in CPR Class
CPR is designed to restore blood flow to the heart and other vital body organs. In a typical CPR class, you’ll learn about the following three basic parts which make up this life-saving process.
Compressions
The first thing you need to know is how to perform chest compressions. When you notice that your child has stopped breathing, you must conduct 30 chest compressions. The aim of these compressions is to improve the flow of blood.
Airway
The next step is to restore breathing by opening up the airway. An airway can be blocked by the tongue in cases where your little one loses consciousness or if it’s obstructed by a foreign object. In CPR class, you’re taught the technique used to restore breathing including the position in which you must place your child during the procedure.
Breathing
Here you learn how to conduct rescue breathing after the 30 chest compressions. This is how you force air into your child’s lungs.
Conclusion
Are you willing to take chances when it comes to your child’s life? Attending a CPR class is in you and your child’s best interests. It can make the difference between whether your child lives or not.
I think everyone needs to have cpr so important saves lives
This is so important and unfortunately few know how to do this, unless they happen to be some kind of health professional.
Totally agree, I have only taken CPR for adults, I should look into upcoming classes. Thank you for the awareness.
If everyone knew CPR think of all the people who might be saved! It truly is a lifesaver.
I just recently got re-certified for basic first aid and cpr. Such important information/skills to have.
Indeed and good for you!
I use to have my course and renew it all the time. Now I have the printed instruction handy, just in case I panick!
Great skills for all to have, knowledge is key, could save lives!
I think it’s an important thing for everyone to learn because you never know if you might need it
Yes, so true!
I have taken a CPR course and believe I should renew it this year. Thankfully I have never had to use my skills but you never know when you may.
I’m thinking about taking a course now that I have grandchildren. I was a basket case in emergencies when my 3 were little. I’d like to be prepared now.
Such a good idea to take the course as a grandma!
I need to take a CPR course.
I have been meaning to take that course for a while now . This was a good reminder as to why it’s so important. Me and my fiancé are thinking of starting a family soon 😀.
I would definitely take it before your child is born.