What is an essential skill to have when providing first aid?

The ability to perform CPR is an essential skill in first aid because it provides vital support to a person experiencing cardiac arrest or respiratory failure. CPR, which stands for cardiopulmonary resuscitation, involves chest compressions and rescue breaths to maintain blood flow to the brain and other organs until advanced medical services can take over.

In emergency situations, a prompt and effective application of CPR can significantly increase the chances of survival, making it one of the most critical skills for anyone trained in first aid. This skill not only aids in saving lives but also gives bystanders the confidence to take action in emergencies where someone’s life is at stake. While knowledge of medications, understanding of anatomy, and familiarity with emergency numbers are helpful in the context of first aid, none are as immediately impactful in a life-threatening situation as the ability to perform CPR.