If you are enrolled in an online CPR first aid certification class, you would most likely hear the instructor say something about how much the CPR guidelines have changed from the first time it was introduced. Moreover, they could say how CPR is always changing from time to time, adding and taking away a few concepts and making it hard to keep up.
Many would even say that CPR classes are just another way for other people to make money. But, have you ever thought of the reasons why CPR seems a little unstable? Well, there are a couple of things that might be the cause of why CPR is always changing.
The Industry of CPR is Still Young
It was not until the 1960s that CPR or cardiopulmonary resuscitation had been fully developed. A few years after that, it was then taught to those that had no background in the medical industry. However, during that time, there was no standard way of teaching it.
During 1966, a few organizations like the American Red Cross and the American Heart Association felt the need to standardize the procedure of teaching CPR, especially to those that are not in the field of medicine. Since then, these organizations, together with many partners have continuously worked and re-worked the aspects of the CPR guidelines.
It is not an easy job. Coming up with a set of standards would need a proof that it really works. And, what is the only way to prove that CPR works? It is by doing it. And, you should know that in time, the reaction of the human body to CPR procedures can change. So, to combat these, standards are bound to change too.
Science and Technology Development
We all know how technology and science are continually improving over the years; this is why CPR is changing too. Professionals are finding better ways to administer CPR with the help of improving technology. So, teaching new ways are needed to ensure that people are up to date with the latest methods that can be done for CPR.
CPR was not perfect when it was first introduced. Back then, to prove its efficiency, doctors had to test it with cadavers. In fact, they went as far as inducing cardiac arrest to medical students to accurately point out its effectivity. Through time, they have concluded that aside from the chest compressions, mouth-to-mouth resuscitations were also needed to facilitate a complete CPR procedure.
Going Back to Basics
Now, CPR guidelines encourage to perform CPR using only chest compressions as a standard for those that have no medical background. Today, online CPR first aid certification classes are considering chest compressions as the king. It was literally going back to basics. Moreover, this type of CPR is being practiced not just in one country but all over the world. This has made CPR more comprehensive and easy to teach to those that are trying to learn how to save a life but do not come from the medical industry.