What does "CPR" stand for?

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation, commonly known as CPR, is a life-saving technique used in emergencies when someone’s breathing or heartbeat has stopped. The term breaks down into two key components: "cardio," relating to the heart, and "pulmonary," relating to the lungs. The procedure is designed to maintain blood flow to the brain and other vital organs by manually compressing the chest and providing artificial ventilation.

In emergency situations where an individual is unresponsive and not breathing normally, performing CPR can dramatically increase the chances of survival and reduce the risk of brain damage. The training typically includes not only how to perform chest compressions and rescue breaths, but also emphasizes the importance of calling for emergency help promptly. This critical skill is fundamental for combat medics and others in healthcare and first response roles, as it equips them to act effectively in life-threatening situations.