Steps to cpr
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CPR steps 2024 AHA guidelines adult
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CPR steps adults
Here is a complete, step-by-step guide to performing CPR on an adult, based on current American Red Cross and AHA guidelines:
Steps to Perform CPR (Adult)
1. Check the Scene
Make sure the environment is safe for you to approach. Put on gloves or PPE if available.
2. Check for Responsiveness
Tap the person's shoulders firmly and shout "Are you okay?" twice (shout-tap-shout).
3. Call for Help
If there is no response and the person is not breathing (or only gasping):
- Call 911 immediately, or direct someone specific to call ("You in the blue shirt - call 911!")
- Send someone to get an AED if one is nearby
4. Position the Person
Lay the person on their back on a firm, flat surface. Kneel beside them.
5. Give 30 Chest Compressions
- Place the heel of one hand on the center of the chest (lower half of the breastbone)
- Place your other hand on top, interlacing your fingers
- Keep arms straight, lean directly over your hands
- Push hard and fast - compress at least 2 inches deep
- Rate: 100-120 compressions per minute (roughly the beat of "Stayin' Alive")
- Let the chest fully recoil between compressions - don't lean on the chest
6. Open the Airway
- Tilt the head back gently by placing one hand on the forehead
- Lift the chin with two fingers of the other hand (head-tilt/chin-lift)
7. Give 2 Rescue Breaths
- Pinch the nose shut
- Create a complete seal over the person's mouth
- Give a breath lasting about 1 second - watch for the chest to rise
- If the first breath doesn't make the chest rise, retilt the head and try again before giving the second breath
8. Continue the Cycle
- 30 compressions : 2 breaths - repeat continuously
- Minimize any breaks in compressions to less than 10 seconds
9. Use an AED When Available
As soon as an AED arrives, turn it on and follow the voice prompts. Do not delay defibrillation - it dramatically improves survival odds.
10. Keep Going
Continue CPR until:
- The person shows signs of life (breathing, movement)
- A trained medical responder takes over
- You are physically unable to continue
- An AED advises you to stop for a shock
Key Numbers to Remember
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Compression rate | 100-120 per minute |
| Compression depth (adults) | At least 2 inches (5 cm) |
| Compression-to-breath ratio | 30:2 |
| Check breathing for no more than | 10 seconds |
| Pause between compressions | Less than 10 seconds |
Hands-only CPR (compressions without rescue breaths) is also acceptable and effective for adult bystander CPR if you are not comfortable giving breaths. The Red Cross CPR guidelines and AHA 2025 guidelines are the authoritative sources for current recommendations. Taking a certified CPR course is strongly recommended so you can practice these skills under guidance.
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CPR Quick Reference
PDF Document · PDF
What's included on the single-page guide:
- Red header banner with the guide title
- Bold "CALL 911 FIRST" callout box
- All 10 CPR steps in a clean 2-column grid with numbered circles
- Key numbers panel (100-120/min rate, 2" depth, 30:2 ratio, etc.)
- Hands-only CPR note for untrained bystanders
- Footer citing AHA 2025 / Red Cross guidelines
It's formatted for standard letter-size paper (8.5" x 11") and prints cleanly in color or black-and-white.
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