In theory, could a fart be used instead of mouth to mouth during a successful CPR?
Question #114151. Asked by star_gazer.
lones78
Answer has 2 votes
lones78 19 year member
109 replies
Answer has 2 votes.
There seems to be a general consensus that is doesn't work, although if a fart can be sustained long enough, theoretically it would be possible, although not very pleasant!
There seems to be more stories on the net about farts CAUSING the need for CPR than farts being used FOR CPR.
Apr 17 2010, 4:11 AM
foosyerdoos
Answer has 3 votes
Currently Best Answer
foosyerdoos 17 year member
135 replies
Answer has 3 votes.
Currently voted the best answer.
The most up to date info on "CPR" is to do uninterrupted chest compressions. Farts wouldn't carry enough pressure to compress the chest cavity. Well, at least mine wouldn't! http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/health/7291473.stm
Apr 17 2010, 4:25 AM
star_gazer
Answer has 3 votes
star_gazer 23 year member
5236 replies
Answer has 3 votes.
This sophmoric video clip insists that in theory this is certainly possible.
A major problem would be the sealing. When giving mouth-to-mouth, there has to be a tight seal between the mouths (and the nose has to be pinched shut). If this isn't done, the air will leak as it takes a fair pressure to inflate the chest.
It should be noted that that "most up to date info" above is NOT accepted practice either in the US or the UK for Basic Life Support. It is based on a study and trials with paramedics - who have greater training and more resources to hand. For an on the spot emergency situation, BLS calls for breathe as well as compressions. The breaths are to inflate the lungs and oxygenate the blood in the lung area. The compressions are to get that oxygenated blood to the brain. They are to pump the heart, not to get air into the lungs. Compression and release of the chest will probably get some air into the lungs, but when done by a paramedic there will be an oxygen mask on the patient and pure oxygen pulled in. Until further notice, stick to the current method. See above BBC link and https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Basic_life_support - and if you haven't got any training in Basic Life Support get some. It could save a life. Wouldn't you feel happier to know that people around you knew? They would be happier to know YOU know.