31
Dec

How do you perform CPR?

How to perform CPR

7-minute read

The below sections provide you with the basic steps for performing CPR, and covers:

  • chest compressions-only CPR
  • chest compressions and rescue breaths
  • using an automated external defibrillator (AED)
  • detailed instructions for CPR in adults, children and babies
  • duration of CPR.

Chest compressions-only CPR

If you have not been trained in CPR or are worried about giving mouth-to-mouth resuscitation to a stranger, you can do chest compression-only (or hands-only) CPR.

Chest compressions are the most important part of CPR. Start chest compressions as soon as possible after calling for help.

To carry out chest compressions on an adult:

  1. Place the heel of your hand on the breastbone at the centre of the person’s chest. Place your other hand on top of your first hand and interlock your fingers.
  2. Using your body weight (not just your arms), press straight down on their chest, by one-third of the chest depth.
  3. Repeat this until help arrives or the person recovers.

Try to give 100 to 120 chest compressions per minute.

Chest compressions with rescue breaths

If you are on your own, then do 30 chest compressions (almost two compressions per second) followed by two rescue breaths and repeat.

To give a rescue breath:

  1. Open the airway by tilting the head and lifting the chin.
  2. Pinch the soft part of the nose closed with your index finger and thumb, or seal the nose with your cheek.
  3. Open the patient’s mouth.
  4. Take a breath and place your lips over the patient’s mouth, ensuring a good seal.
  5. Blow steadily for about 1 second, watching for the chest to rise. Then listen and feel for signs that air is being expelled.
  6. Take another breath and repeat.

If there is more than one rescuer available then make sure:

  • one person calls triple zero (000) for an ambulance
  • one person starts chest compressions immediately.

Then, one person does the compressions and the other person does the rescue breaths, continuing the cycle of 30 compressions followed by 2 rescue breaths.

It is very tiring doing CPR, so if possible swap between doing rescue breaths and compressions, so you can keep going with effective compressions.

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