1-15. INTRODUCTION
If two rescuers are available, one rescuer can perform chest compressions while
the other rescuer performs rescue breathing. One rescuer should position himself on
one side of the casualty near his head while the other rescuer positions himself on the
other side of the casualty near the casualty's chest.
These general procedures are followed:
a. One rescuer positions himself at the casualty's side. He performs external
chest compressions and may be called the compressor.
b. The other rescuer positions himself at the casualty's head. He may be called
the ventilator. His responsibilities include:
(1)
Maintaining an open airway.
(2)
Monitoring the carotid pulse.
(3)
Performing rescue breathing.
c. The compression rate for two-person CPR is 80 to 100 chest compressions
per minute.
d. Five external chest compressions are given by one rescuer (the compressor),
then two full breaths are given by the other rescuer (the ventilator). After the fifth
compression, the compressor should pause 1 to 1 1/2 seconds for the ventilator to give
the two full breaths. Five external chest compressions to one ventilation (two full
breaths) is the ratio.
e. The two rescuers should change places when the compressor becomes tired.
NOTE:
Two-rescuer CPR is summarized in figure 1-14.
MD0571
1-25