What does CPR stand for in a medical emergency?

CPR stands for Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation, which is a life-saving technique used in emergencies when someone's breathing or heartbeat has stopped. This practice involves a series of chest compressions and rescue breaths to help maintain blood flow and oxygenation to the brain and other vital organs until professional medical help arrives.

The term can be broken down into its components: "cardio" refers to the heart, "pulmonary" refers to the lungs, and "resuscitation" means reviving someone from unconsciousness or apparent death. By performing CPR, responders can increase the chances of survival for individuals experiencing cardiac arrest or other life-threatening situations. Familiarity with this abbreviation and its meaning is essential for anyone working in fields related to healthcare or emergency response, including criminal justice officers who may encounter medical emergencies in the course of their duties.