Why Knowing CPR Matters

Cardiac arrest can happen to anyone, anywhere — at home, at work, or in a public place. When the heart stops beating, every second counts. Performing CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) immediately can double or triple a person's chance of survival while waiting for emergency services to arrive.

You don't need to be a medical professional to perform CPR. With a basic understanding of the technique, you can become someone's best chance at survival.

Before You Begin: The CAB Framework

Modern CPR guidelines follow the CAB approach:

  • C — Compressions: Restore blood circulation
  • A — Airway: Clear and open the airway
  • B — Breathing: Provide rescue breaths

Step-by-Step CPR for Adults

Step 1: Assess the Scene and the Person

Make sure the environment is safe before approaching. Tap the person on the shoulder firmly and ask loudly, "Are you okay?" Look for normal breathing. If there is no response and no normal breathing, proceed immediately.

Step 2: Call for Help

Call 911 (or your local emergency number) or have someone nearby call while you begin CPR. If an AED (Automated External Defibrillator) is available, send someone to retrieve it.

Step 3: Begin Chest Compressions

  1. Place the person on their back on a firm, flat surface.
  2. Kneel beside their chest.
  3. Place the heel of one hand on the center of their chest (on the lower half of the breastbone).
  4. Place your other hand on top, interlacing your fingers.
  5. Keep your arms straight and compress the chest at least 2 inches deep.
  6. Push hard and fast — aim for 100–120 compressions per minute (roughly the beat of "Stayin' Alive" by the Bee Gees).
  7. Allow the chest to fully recoil between compressions.

Step 4: Open the Airway

After 30 compressions, tilt the person's head back gently and lift the chin to open the airway. Look for visible obstructions in the mouth and remove them if present.

Step 5: Give Rescue Breaths

Pinch the nose shut, create a seal over the mouth, and give one breath lasting about 1 second — watching for the chest to rise. Repeat for a second breath. Then return to compressions. Maintain the 30:2 ratio (30 compressions to 2 breaths).

Step 6: Continue Until Help Arrives

Keep going until emergency responders take over, an AED is ready to use, the person shows signs of life, or you are physically unable to continue.

Hands-Only CPR: A Simpler Option

If you're uncomfortable giving rescue breaths, hands-only CPR (continuous chest compressions without breaths) is still highly effective for adults who suddenly collapse. Call 911, then push hard and fast on the center of the chest until help arrives.

Important Notes

  • CPR for infants and children uses a modified technique with gentler compressions.
  • Taking a certified CPR course (offered by the Red Cross and American Heart Association) provides hands-on practice.
  • AEDs are designed to be used by non-medical people — follow the voice prompts.

Knowing CPR is one of the most powerful things you can do for the people around you. Consider getting certified — it only takes a few hours and the knowledge lasts a lifetime.