Hands-Only CPR for Adults

CALL 112 IF A PERSON:

1. Collapses
2. Becomes unresponsive

1. Check Responsiveness

1. Tap the person’s shoulder and shout, “Are you OK?”
2. Look for normal breathing. Call 112 if there is no response.
3. Start Hands-Only CPR.
4. Hands-Only CPR should not be used for adults whose cardiac arrest is due to drug overdose, near-drowning, or an unwitnessed cardiac arrest. In these cases, do a conventional CPR combination of chest compressions and rescue breathing.

Note: For hands-only CPR instructions, watch this video from the American Heart Association.

2. Do Chest Compressions

1. Place the heel of your hand on the center of the person’s chest.
2. Place the heel of your other hand on top of your first hand, lacing fingers together.
3. Keep arms straight and your shoulders directly over your hands.
4. Push hard and fast, compressing chest at least 2 inches.
5. Let chest rise completely before pushing down again.
6. Compress at least 100 times per minute.

3. Stop Only if:

1. The person starts breathing normally.
2. A trained responder or emergency help takes over.
3. You are too exhausted to continue.
4. There is an automated external defibrillator (AED) to use.

4. Use an AED as Soon as One Is Available

1. Turn on the AED. It will give you step-by-step instructions.
2. Wipe chest dry.
3. Attach the pads.
4. Plug in connector, if needed.
5. Make sure no one is touching the person. Say “Clear” so that people know to stay back and not touch the person.
6. Push the “Analyze” button if necessary.
7. If a shock is advised, push the “Shock” button.
8. Resume compressions and follow AED prompts.

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Click to learn CPR for children