Does CPR break ribs?

Table of content(s)

1. Introduction
2. Are all patients at risk for broken bones?
3. What should you do before performing CPR?
4. Broken ribs caused by CPR: is it common or rare?
5. What should you do if you hear a break?
6. Conclusion 

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation is one of the most crucial techniques while performing resuscitation. When performing CPR, the primary goal is to save a life by restoring blood circulation and breathing in someone whose heart has stopped beating. A study by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) found that while rib fractures occur in around 30% of CPR cases, survival rates improve when CPR is administered promptly. Thus, there is no doubt that CPR training is essential to act in emergencies. However, many question: does CPR break ribs? This is true especially if it might break ribs. The answer might actually surprise you. Keep reading to know will CPR break ribs! 

Are all patients at risk for broken bones?

The answer to the question is yes. Breaking a rib is scary, but no, you do not need to perform CPR if you feel a rib break. Yes, we are saying that it is normal, though it does not happen under all circumstances. There are a few circumstances under which a rib will break during the act of CPR, one of which depends on the strength of the individual. Men tend to have more upper-body strength. It is, of course, a matter of course that they should cause a break while performing CPR. 

CPR is an action involving repeated chest compressions, each five centimeters deep. Two inches is a considerate amount. In certain cases, multiples will be broken. However, once again, it is necessary to consider this normal. 

What should you do before performing CPR?

CPR must be performed by anyone who feels confident and competent in a public place. So whether you are a trained CPR person or a bystander, you can reduce the risk of breaking ribs. 

As the first step, call 911. So whether it is at home with a relative or at your workplace, if you spot someone having a cardiac arrest, you should act promptly. 

Moreover, while you are waiting for the ambulance to come, you can speak to the emergency department to help you with the CPR performance. So when a person’s pulse cannot be felt, it is ideal to start CPR. This is not only applied to a cardiac arrest. However, if it is necessary, it can be implemented for a victim who has had a heart attack or stroke. 

Read more: CPR vs. BLS Training: What’s the Difference?

Broken ribs caused by CPR: is it common or rare?

Can CPR break ribs? Yes it can. Perform chest compressions at a depth of approximately 2 inches. If the compressions do not achieve the required length, the performance will increase blood circulation around the body. You need the required strength to reach a specific distance. Putting force into this practice increases the chance of breaking a rib during CPR. The risk of injury is more common due to the strength and size of the individual performing CPR. This is why most chest injuries are associated with male first respondents. The upper body muscles use more force as compared to the woman’s body. 

70% of patients have either rib fractures or bone breaks. A study on resuscitation shows that the percentage is higher. The study of 2148 patients delivering CPR concluded the following:

• 86% of men and 91% of women have a skeletal injury. 
• 59% of the men and 79% of the women had breast bone fractures. 
• 77% of the men and 85% of the women had broken ribs. 
• 33% of men and 12% of women had sternocostal separations. 

From the statistics above, it can be seen that women are more prone to chest injuries as compared to men. Moreover, older people tend to have more injuries. It is a warning sign for individuals feeling scared to perform CPR, as breaking ribs is a common injury and can cause death. There is a low risk of this if you are well trained in providing high-quality CPR. 

What should you do if you hear a break?

If you hear a break, you must stay calm and continue offering chest compressions. A rib fracture is not uncommon during CPR. With the aim of maintaining blood circulation to the brain and vital organs, CPR is crucial. After the incident, medical professionals will treat and assess any injuries relevant to CPR. 

Here are steps to take if you hear a break:

1. Stay focused: Keep continuing CPR without any hesitation. You want to keep the blood flowing to the brain and the heart. A broken rib is concerning, but you should stay focused and keep continuing compressions.
2. Check the compression technique: Place your hands correctly on the lower half of the sternum. Compress at a depth of 2 inches. This will help you avoid injuries and stay effective. 
3. Monitor the victim’s condition: Stay alert and watch for any signs of the person regaining breathing or consciousness. If you do not see any signs of recovery, adjust your approach and follow further medical instructions. 
4. Communicate with emergency responders: Inform emergency personnel about rib fractures. This will help them understand the patient’s condition and provide effective care. 
5. Focus on resuscitation care: Once the event is over, ensure that the person receives a full medical evaluation. CPR broken ribs can heal, provided the patient receives proper care. 

Read more: Post-cardiac arrest care (ACLS)

Conclusion 

So does CPR break ribs? Yes, it does. Although it is concerning, you must not stop CPR. If you have found yourself in a situation where CPR practice is necessary for a patient’s improvement, call the 911 dispatcher immediately. During the compressions, if you hear a crack sound in the chest and you sense a fracture, do not stop CPR. Continue performing the compressions in good faith and save a person’s life. Be well prepared to implement CPR in good faith and help a person survive.