CHESS

Ethics Glossary

Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)

A set of defined protocols/techniques designed to restore circulation and respirationin the event of acute cardiopulmonary arrest.  The defined protocols/techniques include closed-chest compression, intubation with assisted ventilation, electroconversion of arrhythmias, and the use of cardiotonic and vasopressive drugs.  CPR is an indicated intervention to reverse the effects of cardiopulmonary arrest CPR is indicated or continued when a clinical judgment is made that the defined protocols/techniques are unlikely to do so.