What does CPR stand for?

Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation, often abbreviated as CPR, is a crucial emergency procedure performed when someone's breathing or heartbeat has stopped. The term "cardiopulmonary" reflects the involvement of both the heart (cardio) and the lungs (pulmonary) in this life-saving technique. CPR aims to maintain blood flow to the brain and other vital organs until professional medical help can arrive. It involves a combination of chest compressions and, in some cases, rescue breaths, which can be vital in preventing brain damage or death from a lack of oxygen.

Understanding CPR's role and terminology is essential for lifeguards and other first responders, as they often encounter situations where immediate action is necessary to save a life. The focus on the heart and lungs underscores the physiological processes that CPR aims to support, differentiating it from other potential acronyms that may suggest different medical procedures or concepts.