As an expert in emergency medical services, I can confirm that the practice of CPR has evolved over the years based on scientific research and evidence. While
rescue breaths were once a standard part of CPR, current guidelines from organizations like the American Heart Association (AHA) have shifted towards
compression-only or
hands-only CPR, especially for bystanders who are not trained in CPR.
The rationale behind this change is that the primary goal of CPR is to circulate oxygenated blood to the brain and heart. Even without
rescue breaths, chest compressions can help achieve this by creating artificial circulation. Additionally, there is a concern that bystanders may be hesitant to perform CPR if they are not confident in their ability to give
rescue breaths correctly, which can delay the initiation of life-saving chest compressions.
However, it's important to note that for certain situations, such as when a person is unresponsive due to drowning or a drug overdose,
rescue breaths may still be indicated. Professional rescuers and those with CPR training are typically taught to perform "full CPR," which includes both chest compressions and
rescue breaths.
In summary, while
rescue breaths are not emphasized in the general guidelines for bystander CPR, they still have a place in certain scenarios and are part of the training for professional rescuers and those with advanced CPR certification.
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