Essentials of basic life support

Abstract: Basic life support (BLS) for heart attack victims is attained through performance of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR); an instructional program is presented for preservice and in-service health care professionals, college students, and lay people. Background information covers: BLS perspectives; the respiratory system functions and emergency conditions; the cardiovascular system, its function and performance; coronary heart disease, heart attack, and risk factors; and legal aspects of prehospital CPR. Specific detailed instructions and illustrations are provided for 1-person CPR, 2-person CPR, management of an obstructed airway, and CPR on infants and children. Also included are a glossary of terms, and American Heart Association CPR and emergency cardiac care performance tests. (wz).