What it means
As a treatment, compression includes chest compressions in cardiopulmonary resuscitationkar-dee-oh-PUL-muh-nair-ee rih-sus-ih-TAY-shunEmergency chest compressions, with or without rescue breaths, to keep blood flowing when the heart has stopped.cardi/o heartpulmon/o lung-ary relating toresuscitation bringing back to lifeFull entry , pressure on a wound to stop bleeding, compression stockings and wraps to reduce swelling, and sequential compression devices that squeeze the legs to prevent clots. As harm, compression means something pressing on a nerve, blood vessel or the spinal cord, such as swelling in a tight cast or a tumor on the spine.
For the nurse
For adult CPR, push hard and fast: at least 5 cm (2 inches) deep at 100 to 120 compressions a minute, letting the chest rise fully between. Check the skin and fit under compression stockings and devices.
At a glance
| Spanish | compresión |
|---|---|
| Also written | compressions |
Related terms
deep vein thrombosis
A blood clot in a deep vein, most often in the leg or pelvis.
cardiopulmonary resuscitation
Emergency chest compressions, with or without rescue breaths, to keep blood flowing when the heart has stopped.
bleeding
Blood escaping from a blood vessel, either out of the body or inside it.