Peter Safar

Austrian physician and pioneer in cardiopulmonary resuscitation

Peter Safar (April 12, 1924 – August 2, 2003) was an Austrian physician known for his pioneering work in the field of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Often referred to as "The Father of CPR," Safar's contributions to emergency medicine have saved countless lives worldwide.

Early Life and Education

Peter Safar was born in Vienna, Austria, into a family of physicians. He pursued his medical education at the University of Vienna, where he developed an interest in anesthesiology. After completing his studies, Safar moved to the United States to further his training.

Career and Contributions

Safar's career in the United States began at the University of Pennsylvania, where he worked as an anesthesiologist. It was here that he began to develop his ideas about emergency medical care and resuscitation.

Development of CPR

In the 1950s, Safar collaborated with James Elam to develop the technique of mouth-to-mouth resuscitation. This method was a significant advancement over previous techniques and laid the groundwork for modern CPR. Safar's research demonstrated the effectiveness of mouth-to-mouth ventilation in saving lives during cardiac arrest.

Peter Safar, the "Father of CPR"

The ABCs of Resuscitation

Safar introduced the "ABCs" of resuscitation: Airway, Breathing, and Circulation. This systematic approach became the foundation of CPR training and is still taught worldwide. His work emphasized the importance of maintaining an open airway, providing artificial ventilation, and ensuring circulation through chest compressions.

Emergency Medical Services

In addition to his work on CPR, Safar was instrumental in developing modern emergency medical services (EMS). He advocated for the establishment of ambulance services staffed by trained paramedics, which greatly improved pre-hospital care for patients experiencing medical emergencies.

Later Life and Legacy

Peter Safar continued to work in the field of emergency medicine throughout his life. He founded the International Resuscitation Research Center at the University of Pittsburgh, where he conducted research on improving resuscitation techniques and outcomes.

Safar's legacy lives on through the countless lives saved by CPR and the global adoption of his methods. His work has had a profound impact on the field of emergency medicine and continues to influence medical practice today.

Related Pages

• Cardiopulmonary resuscitation
• Anesthesiology
• Emergency medical services
• University of Pittsburgh