Mouth-to-mouth resuscitation

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

(Redirected from Rescue breathing)

Mouth-to-mouth resuscitation is a procedure used in emergency medicine to help someone who is not breathing, or is not breathing adequately, to start breathing again. It is a type of artificial respiration.

Procedure[edit | edit source]

Mouth-to-mouth resuscitation involves one person using their mouth to create a seal over the mouth of the person who is not breathing. The rescuer then blows air into the person's mouth, which travels down their trachea and into their lungs. This can help to oxygenate the person's blood and may stimulate them to start breathing on their own again.

History[edit | edit source]

The technique of mouth-to-mouth resuscitation has been used for centuries, but it was not until the 20th century that it became widely accepted as a standard part of first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). It is now taught in first aid and CPR courses around the world.

Effectiveness[edit | edit source]

While mouth-to-mouth resuscitation can be effective in some situations, it is not always the best method of artificial respiration. For example, if the person is not breathing because of a blocked airway, mouth-to-mouth resuscitation may not be effective. In these cases, other methods such as the Heimlich maneuver may be more appropriate.

Risks[edit | edit source]

There are some risks associated with mouth-to-mouth resuscitation. For example, if the rescuer is not careful, they could blow too much air into the person's lungs, which could cause damage. There is also a risk of transmitting diseases through mouth-to-mouth contact.

See also[edit | edit source]

Mouth-to-mouth resuscitation Resources
Wikipedia
WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD