CPR is performed on a person whose heartbeat or breathing has stopped. Kidzworld is here to tell you what CPR is all about and why you should learn this important, life-saving skill.

CPR - Why CPR Is Important

CPR stands for cardiopulmonary resuscitation - that's a mouthful to say! It's a combination of rescue breathing (mouth-to-mouth resuscitation) and chest compressions. So why's it so important? The answer's simple - CPR saves lives. If a person has been in an accident, like a near-drowning, and has stopped breathing, CPR will restore breathing and blood circulation of oxygen-rich blood to the brain. Without oxygen, permanent brain damage or death can occur in less than 8 minutes - scary!

CPR - New CPR Guidelines

It's just gotten easier to save a person's life. Changes to the CPR guidelines were made in 2005 to put less emphasis on breathing and more importance on compressions. The old rule was to give two breaths for every 15 chest compressions, but now it's two breaths for every 30 compressions. As well, rescuers should "push hard and push fast" when giving chest compressions. Health officials believe that the new changes will get more bystanders to step into action.

CPR - Different Types of CPR

CPR is performed differently, depending on your age.

CPR for infants (under 1).

CPR for children (ages 1-8).

CPR for adults.

CPR for family pets (cats and dogs).

CPR - Taking a CPR Course

Everyone (that includes you) should know how to give CPR. It's a necessary skill for becoming a lifeguard or ski instructor, but more importantly, it prepares you for emergencies. Courses are offered at community centers and your local American Red Cross branch. Besides books and videos, instructors will perform CPR demonstrations on mannequins. At the end of the course, you'll have to take a written test and demonstrate proper techniques - if ya pass, you'll receive the Heartsaver certificate! Since CPR is a skill that needs to be practiced, it's a good idea to take refresher courses every year.

CPR - Did U Know?

Sudden cardiac arrest is the leading cause of death in adults. Most occur in people who have heart disease.

Less than 5% of people who go into cardiac arrest survive, but CPR doubles a person's chance of survival.

75% of cardiac arrest incidents happen at home.

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Read more: Health