I was sad to see Michael go. I will have to admit that because his music was such a big part of my family since I was a kid, his untimely death left me with mixed feelings, almost as if a member of the family had passed on. It was a very odd experience for me. Music is such a powerful form of communication and stimulation, there just aren’t many things that parallel it’s ability to effect human beings feelings and emotions. I can hear a certain song and almost instantly remember a time 20 years ago like it was yesterday. It really is amazing. I cannot cast a vote on Michael Jackson’s personal life. I will not be any mans moral judge and I am the last one to cast stones at anyone. My hope is that he was ready to meet God when he went.

I do want to make clear that I do not know all the facts surrounding what took place at Michael Jackson’s house prior to the 911 call. My points in this video are based off credible, but limited information. However, teaching BLS for many years has given me a bit of experience observing health care provider errors while providing BLS care.

One of the most common errors, (even by those with may years of experience) continues to be the decision to apply chest compressions based on a patient not responding or on the absence of a palpable pulse. Many times breathing is completely over looked. I purposely give scenarios in class to root this out because the pulse check is NOT the primary method for determining circulation in the unconscious patient.

Unconsciousness does not mean CPR is always necessary. For some of us this is common sense, but for others, clarifying this small but important fact may save some trouble down the road. Consistent breathing always indicates the heart is pumping effectively enough to support the respiratory system. It does not mean that the situation can’t change for the worse, but chest compression at this point are not the correct intervention. If breaths are shallow, then assisted ventilations may be necessary to prevent both respiratory and cardiac arrest. If respirations are adequate, then the recovery position is the preferred position outside of a clinical setting along with continual close monitoring and ensuring that the appropriate resources have been summoned.

Pretty simple huh?