Cardiac Arrest and CPR Training in Reno

When someone experiences cardiac arrest, their heart stops beating effectively, cutting off blood flow to the brain and vital organs. CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) is a lifesaving emergency procedure that maintains oxygenated blood flow until advanced medical help arrives.

At Northern Nevada CPR, we provide hands-on CPR and First Aid training in Reno and Northern Nevada, equipping students with the skills and confidence to respond in critical cardiac emergencies.

Understanding Cardiac Arrest

Normally, the heart pumps oxygen-rich blood to the brain, lungs, and other vital organs. In cardiac arrest, the heart either stops beating entirely or quivers ineffectively (ventricular fibrillation). Without a strong heartbeat, oxygen delivery stops, and brain cells begin dying within minutes—making immediate CPR essential.

How CPR Supports the Body

CPR combines chest compressions and rescue breaths to mimic the heart’s pumping and lungs’ oxygen exchange.

Chest Compressions: The Artificial Pump

• Push firmly and rapidly on the chest (at least 2 inches deep for adults).

• Compress the heart between the sternum and spine, forcing blood into the arteries.

• Release pressure to allow the heart to refill with blood.

• Goal: maintain blood circulation to keep tissues alive until professional care arrives.

Rescue Breaths: Oxygen for the Blood

• Provide breaths to fill the lungs with oxygen.

• Oxygen passes from the lungs into the bloodstream.

• Chest compressions circulate the oxygen-rich blood to vital organs, especially the brain.

Together, these steps temporarily replace the heart and lungs’ essential functions.

Why CPR Protects the Brain

The brain is extremely sensitive to oxygen deprivation. Within 4–6 minutes of no blood flow, irreversible brain damage can occur. CPR sustains blood flow and oxygen delivery, buying critical time for emergency responders to arrive with advanced care.

Limitations of CPR

• CPR does not restart the heart—defibrillation or advanced medical treatment is required.

• Blood flow from CPR is only 30–40% of normal cardiac output, but it is sufficient to preserve vital organs.

• CPR is a temporary measure, not a cure.

Why Quality CPR Matters

• Proper compression depth and rate improve blood flow effectiveness.

• Minimizing interruptions keeps oxygen moving continuously.

• Combining compressions with rescue breaths provides better oxygenation than compressions alone.

Conclusion

Every compression and breath during CPR supports the body’s critical functions, keeps oxygen flowing, protects the brain, and preserves life until emergency responders arrive.

Northern Nevada CPR offers hands-on CPR and First Aid classes in Reno, helping students of all backgrounds learn how to respond confidently in cardiac emergencies.

Sign up today and be ready to save a life.