Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPCR)

Special Topics

First Aid: Emergency Care for Dogs and Cats

• Cardiopulmonary cerebral resuscitation (CPCR) is the treatment required to save an animal (or human) life when suffering from cardiopulmonary arrest.

• Intent is to provide sufficient blood flow and oxygen to the brain and vital organs to support life.

• Most patients in which CPCR is initiated are unable to be saved. Long term survival among feline patients is extremely low (study shows only 2.3% of feline patients that were administered CPCR stayed alive to be discharged)

Types of CPCR

• Basic CPCR- can be performed by anyone and is generally performed at the scene of arrest through manual means

• Advanced CPCR- is usually performed by a train team of professionals and may employ various methods of resuscitation

CPCR

• Consists of two parts designed to keep the lungs supplied with oxygen and to keep blood circulating throughout body.• Rescue Breathing• Chest Compressions

Which is most important? What if there is only one person available to perform CPCR?

Basic CPCR: With two people present

• Make certain that animal is actually arrested and unconscious.

• Then perform ABC’s of CPR• A- Airway• B-Breathing• C-Circulation

Ensure open airway

• Extend the neck and head and pull the tongue forward.