Make sure that you have followed the DRSABCD action plan. This ensures that you have performed the vital steps before beginning CPR.
How to perform CPR on someone who is pregnant
If possible, place towels or pillows 15-30 degrees to tilt their right hip while leaving their shoulders flat to the ground.
Kneel beside the casualty
Place the heel of one hand in the centre of the chest, with the other hand interlocked on top.
4. Use the weight of your body to push down roughly 1/3 of their chest depth.
5. Release the pressure and push down again.
6. To ensure that the patient is in the correct position, place one hand on their forehead and the other hand under their chin to tilt their head back.
7. Pinch their nose with your thumb and index finger and use your other hand to open their mouth.
After the 30 compressions, give 2 rescue breaths.
8. Take a breath and form a seal around the patient’s mouth. Blow for about one second and look for the chest to rise and fall. Then give a second breath.
Repeat the process and aim to do 5 cycles per 2 minutes. If you get tired, swap with someone else every 5 cycles.
Using an AED (Defibrillator)
If an AED is available, attach the pads as demonstrated in the picture below and follow its instructions.
The AED looks at the heart rhythm every 2 minutes and may deliver a shock to the casualty. It will tell you before it does so.
In between every analysis- keep performing CPR.
When to stop CPR
Only stop CPR if one of the following has occurred:
The casualty returns to breathing normally
It is impossible to continue
A health care professional takes over
The situation is too dangerous to keep going
If the casualty starts breathing
If they start breathing, place them on their left side in the recovery position.
In case of injury to the left side, perform on the right side and wedge a cushion or towel under their belly.
Need more information?
Click here for our printable guide to CPR in pregnancy.