Same Day CPR Glossary: A–Z Guide to CPR & Emergency Response Terms

A

AED (Automated External Defibrillator)

An AED is a portable device used during sudden cardiac arrest. It checks the heart’s rhythm and, if necessary, delivers an electrical shock to help the heart return to a normal rhythm. The device provides clear voice instructions so the rescuer knows exactly what to do. AED training is included in CPR Certification and Basic Life Support classes.

Airway

The airway is the path that allows air to move from the mouth and nose into the lungs. During CPR, keeping the airway open is one of the first priorities. If the airway is blocked, oxygen cannot reach the lungs.

ACLS (Advanced Cardiac Life Support)

ACLS is an advanced-level course for healthcare professionals who respond to serious heart emergencies. It includes team communication, recognizing heart rhythms, and organized emergency response steps. ACLS builds on Basic Life Support skills.

AHA Guidelines

AHA Guidelines are the official standards used in CPR and emergency care training. They are updated regularly to reflect current best practices. CPR classes follow these guidelines to ensure proper techniques are taught.

B

Bag-Valve Mask (BVM)

A bag-valve mask is a handheld device used to give breaths to a person who is not breathing. It includes a mask that covers the face and a bag that is squeezed to push air into the lungs. It is commonly used by trained professionals in BLS and ACLS settings.

Basic Life Support (BLS)

Basic Life Support is a CPR course for healthcare providers such as nurses, dental teams, and emergency responders. It includes chest compressions, rescue breaths, AED use, and working as part of a response team.

Breathing Check

A breathing check is a quick look at the chest and listening for normal breathing. If a person is not breathing normally or is only gasping, CPR should begin.

C

Cardiac Arrest

Cardiac arrest happens when the heart suddenly stops pumping blood effectively. The person becomes unresponsive and stops breathing normally. Immediate CPR and use of an AED are critical in this situation.

Chest Compressions

Chest compressions are firm pushes in the center of the chest during CPR. They help move blood to the brain and other vital organs when the heart is not working. Correct compression rate and depth are emphasized during CPR Certification training.

CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation)

CPR is an emergency action that combines chest compressions and sometimes rescue breaths. It is performed when a person’s heart has stopped or they are not breathing normally. CPR helps keep blood flowing until professional help arrives.

CPR Certification

CPR Certification is awarded after a student completes a CPR course and demonstrates the required skills. A Course Completion Card is issued as proof of training.

D

Defibrillation

Defibrillation is the process of delivering an electrical shock to the heart using an AED. The shock may help restore a normal heartbeat during certain types of cardiac arrest.

Depth of Compressions

Depth of compressions refers to how far the chest is pressed during CPR. Proper depth allows blood to circulate more effectively during compressions.

E

Emergency Action Plan (EAP)

An Emergency Action Plan is a written plan that explains what to do during an emergency. Many workplaces, schools, and facilities have one to guide quick response.

Emergency Medical Services (EMS)

Emergency Medical Services are trained responders who arrive by ambulance to provide advanced care. CPR is performed to support the person until EMS arrives.

F

First Aid

First aid is the immediate assistance given to someone who is injured or suddenly ill. It helps stabilize the situation until professional responders take over.

Full Recoil

Full recoil means allowing the chest to return completely to its normal position after each compression. This allows the heart to refill with blood before the next push.

G

Gasping

Gasping is irregular, abnormal breathing that may occur during cardiac arrest. It may sound like choking or snorting. Gasping is not normal breathing, and CPR should begin immediately.

Good Samaritan Law

Good Samaritan laws are meant to provide legal protection to individuals who offer emergency help in good faith. These laws encourage bystanders to assist during emergencies.

H

Hands-Only CPR

Hands-Only CPR is CPR performed using chest compressions without rescue breaths. It is recommended for bystanders who are not formally trained or feel unsure about giving breaths.

Heart Rhythm

Heart rhythm refers to the pattern of heartbeats. An AED checks the rhythm to determine whether a shock is needed.

I

Infant CPR

Infant CPR uses special techniques for babies under one year old. It involves gentler compressions and different hand placement to match the infant’s size.

Instructor-Led Training

Instructor-led training takes place in person with a certified instructor. Students receive live demonstrations, guided practice, and hands-on skills testing.

J

Jaw Thrust Maneuver

The jaw thrust maneuver is a method used by trained responders to open the airway without moving the neck. It is often taught in advanced courses such as ACLS.

K

Kneeling Position

The kneeling position allows the rescuer to apply strong and steady chest compressions. Proper body position helps maintain correct compression depth and rhythm.

L

Life Support

Life support refers to emergency actions that help maintain breathing and circulation. Basic Life Support and Advanced Cardiac Life Support courses focus on these essential skills.

M

Manikin

A manikin is a training model that looks like a person’s upper body. Students practice chest compressions, rescue breaths, and AED placement on a manikin during CPR classes.

Mask Barrier Device

A mask barrier device is used when giving rescue breaths. It creates a protective layer between the rescuer and the person receiving breaths.

N

Normal Breathing

Normal breathing is steady and regular. If breathing is absent, irregular, or gasping, CPR should begin without delay.

O

Obstructed Airway

An obstructed airway occurs when something blocks airflow into the lungs. CPR and first aid training include methods to respond to choking situations.

P

PALS (Pediatric Advanced Life Support)

PALS is an advanced course focused on emergency response for infants and children. It is commonly required for healthcare providers who work in pediatric settings.

Pulse Check

A pulse check is a brief check for signs of circulation. In Basic Life Support training, it is performed quickly before starting compressions.

Q

Quality CPR

Quality CPR means performing compressions at the correct speed and depth while allowing full recoil. Consistent, steady compressions improve the chance of survival.

R

Rescue Breaths

Rescue breaths are controlled breaths given to someone who is not breathing. They are combined with compressions in many CPR situations

Return of Spontaneous Circulation (ROSC)

This term describes when the heart begins beating on its own again after CPR has been performed.

S

Scene Safety

Scene safety means checking that the area is safe before helping someone. This protects both the rescuer and the person in need.

Skills Session

A skills session is the hands-on part of CPR Certification where students demonstrate compressions, AED use, and other required techniques in person.

T

Two-Rescuer CPR

Two-rescuer CPR involves two trained individuals working together. One performs compressions while the other provides breaths and prepares the AED.

U

Unresponsive

A person is unresponsive when they do not react to voice or touch. This is one of the first signs that emergency action is needed.

V

Ventilations

Ventilations are breaths given during CPR to help move oxygen into the lungs.

W

Witnessed Collapse

A witnessed collapse happens when someone sees a person suddenly fall and become unresponsive. CPR can begin immediately without delay.

X

Xiphoid Process

The xiphoid process is the small lower portion of the breastbone. During CPR training, students learn to place compressions above this area.

Y

Youth CPR Training

Youth CPR training introduces teenagers and young adults to CPR skills. It helps build awareness and confidence in recognizing emergencies.

Z

Zone of Safety

The zone of safety refers to the clear area around a person when an AED shock is delivered. Everyone must stand back before the shock is given.