What are the three basic life-support measures of cardiopulmonary resuscitation?

Generally, the three basic life-supporting measures of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) are airway clearance, chest compressions, and artificial ventilation. The details are as follows:

1. Airway Clearance

In CPR, you can first determine whether the patient is conscious by calling loudly. You may also check for a pulse by touching areas such as the neck or wrist. Pay attention to the surroundings to ensure the environment is safe. Examine the patient's mouth for foreign objects, dentures, or obstructions; if present, clear any foreign material, vomit, or secretions from the nose and mouth.

2. Chest Compressions

Place the heel of one hand on the center of the chest at the midpoint between the nipples, overlapping the other hand on top. Compress the chest to a depth of 3–5 cm. These compressions help simulate heart contractions, promote blood circulation, support lung ventilation, slow the progression of ventricular fibrillation, provide adequate oxygen supply to the heart, and reduce shock.

3. Artificial Ventilation

After clearing vomit or secretions from the patient’s mouth and nose, open the airway, pinch the nose shut, and deliver rescue breaths through the mouth. In a hospital setting, immediate interventions such as endotracheal intubation should be performed to secure the airway and provide mechanical ventilation.

Note: Even if the heartbeat resumes using the above methods, the patient should be promptly transported to a hospital for further evaluation and treatment of the underlying condition.