Performing CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) is a critical life-saving skill. While our previous posts, "CPR & How to Perform Parts 1 to 3," described how to perform CPR on all age groups, there are unique scenarios that can arise. For example, what if the victim is pregnant? What if you have a broken arm, they begin to vomit, have a broken jaw, or a stoma? While we can’t prepare you for every possible outcome, we’ll address these common challenges to help you improve survival chances.
Vomiting During CPR
Vomiting can occur due to air buildup in the stomach during rescue breaths. When an unconscious person vomits, there’s a risk of aspiration (vomit entering the lungs). To minimize this risk:
What to Do:
Turn the person’s head and body together onto their side using the "H.A.IN.E.S Technique" (High Arm IN Endangered Spine). This allows the vomit to drain out.
Quickly wipe the person’s mouth clean.
Roll them back onto their back and continue CPR.
Mouth-to-Nose or Stoma Breathing
Sometimes, you may not be able to seal your mouth over the victim’s mouth to give rescue breaths due to injuries, tight jaw, or blood. A stoma (an opening in the neck) may also require a different approach.
What to Do:
If breathing through the nose:
Block the mouth to prevent air escape.
Seal your mouth around the nose and give a breath until the chest rises.
For a stoma:
Block both the mouth and nose.
Give a breath directly into the stoma.
One-Handed Compressions
If you’re injured (e.g., broken arm or wrist) or have medical conditions like arthritis that limit upper body strength, one-handed compressions can be effective.
What to Do:
Place the heel of one hand in the center of the person’s chest.
Either grasp the wrist of the hand on the chest or place your free hand behind your back.
Perform compressions, pushing hard and fast.
Keep your compressing arm as straight as possible to maintain proper technique.
CPR for a Pregnant Woman
CPR for a pregnant woman follows the same process as standard CPR: 30 compressions followed by 2 breaths. However, additional steps can optimize blood flow:
What to Do:
If available, place a soft object under the woman’s right hip to raise it 3-4 inches (7-10 cm) leaning the patient towards their "Left Side".
If no object is available, proceed with CPR without delay. Do not interrupt compressions to search for an object.
Be Prepared, Save Lives
Emergencies are unpredictable, but being equipped with knowledge and skills can make a difference.
Many people believe that waiting for an ambulance is the best course of action, however, it can take time sadly for the ambulance to arrive and this time may be more than what the patient can maintain without blood-flow.
DONT HESITATE - When in doubt, begin CPR and follow the C.A.B technique as released by the Heart & Stroke Foundation.
C.A.B - 2015 Guideline
C = Compressions "Begin immediately with 30 compressions"
A = Airway - Have a bystander open the casualties airway and maintain it for airflow to return. It can often take to long to find a pocket mask "Open the airway" during compressions and DO NOT LET GO.
B = Breathing - If you are capable, give breaths to the patient after every 30 compressions to enhance oxygenation of the blood.
Important Reminders:
Protect Yourself: Ensure the scene is safe before assisting.
Call 911: Activate emergency services immediately.
Don’t Waste Time: Begin CPR as soon as possible.
Learn First Aid Today!
At Saving Grace Medical Academy Ltd., we provide Heart & Stroke Foundation-certified First Aid and CPR courses to empower you with essential life-saving skills. Prepare for the unexpected and make a difference in someone’s life.
This material is for informational purposes only and references The Canadian Red Cross, Alberta Heart & Stroke Foundation, and Alberta Health Services. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, technical guidance, or formal training. For questions, consult your local physician or certified safety training facility.
RESOURCES:
Author - Saving Grace Medical Academy Ltd
Jason T
Retired EMT - Heart & Stroke Foundation Senior Instructor