Mouth-to-mouth resuscitation

Mouth-to-mouth resuscitation is a procedure used in emergency medicine to help someone who is not breathing, or is not breathing adequately, to start breathing again. It is a type of artificial respiration.

Procedure

Mouth-to-mouth resuscitation involves one person using their mouth to create a seal over the mouth of the person who is not breathing. The rescuer then blows air into the person's mouth, which travels down their trachea and into their lungs. This can help to oxygenate the person's blood and may stimulate them to start breathing on their own again.

History

The technique of mouth-to-mouth resuscitation has been used for centuries, but it was not until the 20th century that it became widely accepted as a standard part of first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). It is now taught in first aid and CPR courses around the world.

Effectiveness

While mouth-to-mouth resuscitation can be effective in some situations, it is not always the best method of artificial respiration. For example, if the person is not breathing because of a blocked airway, mouth-to-mouth resuscitation may not be effective. In these cases, other methods such as the Heimlich maneuver may be more appropriate.

Risks

There are some risks associated with mouth-to-mouth resuscitation. For example, if the rescuer is not careful, they could blow too much air into the person's lungs, which could cause damage. There is also a risk of transmitting diseases through mouth-to-mouth contact.

See also

• Cardiopulmonary resuscitation
• Artificial respiration
• Heimlich maneuver

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