Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) Steps
1. Assess the Scene for Safety
o Ensure the environment is safe for both the rescuer and the victim.
Clear any hazards to prevent further injury.
2. Check for Responsiveness
o Tap the victim’s shoulder firmly and shout, “Are you okay?”
o Look for signs of movement, consciousness, or reaction.
3. Call for Help
o If the victim is unresponsive, call for emergency medical assistance
immediately, or instruct someone nearby to call.
o Request an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) if available.
4. Position the Victim
o Place the victim on their back on a flat, firm surface.
5. Check for Breathing and Pulse
o Observe the chest for movement and listen for breathing for no more
than 10 seconds.
o Simultaneously, check for a carotid pulse on the neck. If no normal
breathing or pulse is detected, begin CPR immediately.
6. Begin Chest Compressions
o Hand Placement: Place the heel of one hand in the center of the
chest, on the lower half of the sternum. Place the other hand on top
and interlock the fingers.
o Position: Keep your shoulders directly over your hands, with elbows
locked, to use your body weight.
o Compression Depth: Push down hard and fast to a depth of at least 2
inches (5 cm) for adults.
o Rate: Aim for 100-120 compressions per minute, allowing the chest to
recoil fully between compressions.
7. Provide Rescue Breaths (If Trained)
o Open the Airway: Tilt the head back and lift the chin to open the
airway.
o Seal the Mouth: Pinch the nose shut, create a seal over the victim’s
mouth, and deliver two rescue breaths.
o Breath Technique: Each breath should last about 1 second and make
the chest rise visibly. Avoid excessive force to prevent air entering the
stomach.
o Continue Cycle: Alternate 30 compressions with 2 breaths (30:2
ratio).
8. Use an AED (If Available)
o Turn on the AED and follow voice prompts.
o Attach pads to the victim’s chest as indicated on the AED.
o Clear Area: Ensure no one is touching the victim when the AED
analyzes the heart rhythm.
o Deliver Shock: If instructed, deliver a shock by pressing the button.
Resume CPR immediately after the shock, starting with chest
compressions.
9. Continue CPR Cycles
o Continue CPR cycles of 30 compressions to 2 breaths until:
Emergency personnel arrive and take over.
An AED is available and ready for use.
The victim shows signs of life (breathing or movement).
You are physically unable to continue.
10.Reassess and Document
If the victim shows signs of life, place them in the recovery position and
monitor until help arrives.
Document the time CPR was started, any observations, and actions taken for
medical records or emergency responders.
