What does "CPR" stand for?

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation is a lifesaving procedure used in emergencies when someone's breathing or heartbeat has stopped. The term "cardiopulmonary" refers to the heart (cardio) and lungs (pulmonary), emphasizing the importance of both organ systems in sustaining life. CPR combines chest compressions with artificial ventilation to artificially circulate blood and provide oxygen to the brain and other vital organs until advanced medical help arrives or normal heart function is restored.

The focus on the methods of CPR, including how to perform compressions and rescue breaths, highlights the procedure's critical role in preventing brain damage or death from cardiac arrest. Understanding this terminology is essential for anyone involved in emergency response, as it forms the foundation for recognizing and performing CPR effectively.