Forced introduction of air into the lungs of someone who has stopped breathing (see respiratory arrest) or whose breathing is inadequate. As an emergency first-aid measure, artificial respiration can be given mouth-to-mouth or mouth-tonose, which can prevent brain damage due to oxygen deprivation; a delay in breathing for more than 6 minutes can cause death. Cardiac compressions may also be necessary if poor respiration has led to cessation of the heartbeat (see cardiopulmonary resuscitation). Artificial respiration can be continued by use of a ventilator (see ventilation).
Artificial respiration |
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