Cardio-pulmonary resuscitation, or CPR, is an emergency life-saving technique involving manual external compressions of the chest as well as providing rescue breathing to promote blood movement of oxygenation to vital organs such as the brain and kidneys. Generalized estimates by the American Heart Association are that early, properly performed CPR, together with cardiac defibrillation within the first three to five minutes following a witnessed collapse, can result in long-term survival rates of up to 50 percent. Even with proper technique, CPR can cause physical injury to the victim. Improper techniques only worsen the risks.
Rib Cage Injuries
A 1987 study, conducted by Drs. J.P. Krischer , E.G. Fine, J.H. Davis and E.L. Nagel, examined autopsies of over 700 patients to determine any pathological findings that could be related to CPR. They found that over 30 percent had evidence of rib fractures and 20 percent displayed fractures of the sternum, or breast bone. The major reasons for these complications tend to stem from improper hand placement on the sternum during chest compressions, and too forceful and too deep compressions.
Organ Damage
Instances of lacerated livers and punctured lungs can occur from cardiopulmonary resuscitation. There are caused primarily from forceful compressions to the extent that organs can become contused, or bruised, or from sharp ends of broken bones such as the ribs and sternum.
Vomiting
According to the University of Arkansas Department Of Agriculture, vomiting is the most frequently encountered complication of cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Vomiting creates the risk of aspirating the stomach contents into the lungs, causing pneumonia, and obstructs the ability to ventilate during CPR.
Air in the Stomach
When rescue breathing is performed too vigorously or when the head, neck and jaw are improperly aligned, ventilation is inadequate and air is not pushed into the lungs. Instead, the air is forced into the stomach causing abdominal distension, or bloating. Too much air in the stomach can cause increased pressure against the diaphragm, which in turn restricts the effectiveness of chest compressions.
