Puhalluselvytyksessä

Puhalluselvytyksessä, known in English as rescue breathing or mouth-to-mouth resuscitation, is a component of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). It involves a rescuer exhaling air from their lungs into the mouth of a person who is not breathing or is breathing inadequately. This action aims to deliver oxygen to the victim's lungs, supporting circulation until professional medical help arrives or spontaneous breathing resumes.

The technique typically involves opening the airway, usually by tilting the head back and lifting the chin, to ensure a clear passage for air. The rescuer then seals their mouth over the victim's mouth, pinching the victim's nostrils closed. Two breaths are given, each lasting about one second, with a pause between breaths to allow the chest to fall. The effectiveness of the breaths can be observed by the rise and fall of the victim's chest.

Puhalluselvytyksessä is often performed in conjunction with chest compressions as part of full CPR, particularly by trained individuals. For untrained lay rescuers, guidelines often emphasize chest compressions only, as the primary goal is to maintain blood circulation. However, for healthcare professionals and those trained in advanced life support, rescue breathing remains a critical element of resuscitation efforts. The frequency and duration of breaths, as well as their ratio to chest compressions, may vary depending on the age of the victim and the specific resuscitation guidelines being followed.