CPR Steps - How to Perform CPR
Knowing how to perform CPR in case of an emergency may help you to save a life. Even if you've been trained, it can be difficult to remember all the steps involved in performing CPR. Here's a simple step-by-step guide to help you remember how to perform CPR.
1. Check the Scene
Before getting involved, remember that you don't want to become a victim yourself. Check to make sure the scene is safe, there are no hazards present, and that you have your personal protective equipment available.
2. Check the Person
Tap and shout. Ask the person, "Are you alright?" Check to see if they are breathing normally.
3. Call 911
For an adult victim, you should always call 911 first, then get an AED and begin CPR.
For a child or infant victim, you should care first by performing 2 minutes of CPR. Then call 911.
4. Give 30 Compressions
Place your hands on the center of the victim's chest between the nipples, with the fingers interlocked. Compress 2 - 2.4 inches deep for 30 compressions at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute.
For an infant, place two fingers on the center of the chest between the nipples and compress at least 1/3 the depth of the chest. The same rate and number of compressions should be used on an infant as on a child or adult.
5. Open the Airway
Perform a head-tilt chin-lift and sweep out any visible objects in the event that the person was choking.
6. Give 2 Breaths
Give the person 2 breaths mouth-to-mouth for 1 second each. Watch for chest rise and fall. If the chest does not rise and fall, reposition the head and try the breaths again.
7. Repeat Compressions & Breaths
Continue cycles of 30 compressions and 2 breaths until:
- an AED arrives
- advanced medical personnel arrive to take over
- the person shows signs of life
- the scene becomes unsafe
- or you are too exhausted to continue
