When was CPR invented?

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation, also known as CPR, was invented in 1960, building on the work of Peter Safar and James Elam. CPR was originally created to help physicians treat patients with limited cardiac function and has expanded to being taught to members of the public as a form of emergency preparedness.

CPR is used to maintain the flow of oxygen to the brain and other vital organs during periods of acute cardiac crisis. It is an emergency treatment and can keep a person alive until medical responders arrive and are able to provide more advanced patient care. CPR begins with chest compressions and then incorporates rescue breathing.