To perform CPR on an adult, ensure the scene is safe, check for responsiveness, and call 9-1-1. Place the person on their back on a firm surface, then perform 30 hard, fast chest compressions at 100-120 per minute (center of chest, 2-inch depth) followed by 2 rescue breaths, repeating the 30:2 cycle until help arrives.
Key CPR Steps (Adult)
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- Check Responsiveness: Tap shoulders and ask “Are you okay?”.
- Call 9-1-1: If no response and no breathing, call emergency services and find an Automated External Defibrillator (AED).
- Position:
Place the person on their back on a firm, flat surface.
- Compressions: Place the heel of one hand in the center of the chest (nipple line), with the other hand on top, interlacing fingers.
- Push Hard & Fast: Push down at least 2 inches (5 cm) at a rate of 100-120 per minute—fast, like the beat of the song “Stayin’ Alive”.
- Allow Recoil: Allow the chest to fully recoil between compressions.
- Rescue Breaths (Optional/Trained): If trained, deliver 2 breaths after every 30 compressions. Open the airway with a head-tilt/chin-lift, pinch the nose, and make a full seal with your mouth.
- Continue: Keep going until medical help arrives, an AED is ready, or the person wakes up.
Hands-Only CPR (Untrained)
If you are not trained in CPR, perform “Hands-Only CPR” by following the steps above but skipping the breaths. Continue uninterrupted chest compressions.
If you are not trained in CPR, perform “Hands-Only CPR” by following the steps above but skipping the breaths. Continue uninterrupted chest compressions.
Child & Baby CPR Differences
- Child (1 year to puberty): Use one or two hands to compress the chest about 2 inches deep at 100-120 per minute.
- Baby (under 1 year): Use two fingers or two thumbs in the center of the chest, just below the nipple line. Compress about 1.5 inches deep.