Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)

Adult

Rescue breaths
  • If you have someone with you, send them to dial 999 (or 112) for an ambulance immediately.
  • If you are alone dial 999 (or 112) for an ambulance immediately and then return to help the casualty.

Give 30 chest compressions

  • Place heel of your hand in the centre of the chest.
  • Place other hand on top and interlock fingers.
  • Keeping your arms straight and your fingers off the chest, press down by 4-5cms. then release the pressure, keeping your hands in place.
  • Repeat the compressions 30 times, at a rate of 100 per minute.

Give 2 rescue breaths.

  • Ensure the airway is open.
  • Pinch nose firmly closed.
  • Take a deep breath and seal your lips around the casualty’s mouth.
  • Blow into the mouth until the chest rises.
  • Remove your mouth and allow the chest to fall.
  • Repeat once more.

Continue resuscitation, 30 compressions to 2 Rescue Breaths.

Do not stop unless:

  • Emergency help arrives and takes over.
  • The casualty breathes normally or
  • You become so exhausted that you cannot carry on.

Notes:

  • If you are alone, call an ambulance as soon as you know the casualty is not breathing - unless unconsciousness is due to drowning.
  • If two rescuers with the knowledge of CPR, are available, change every 2 minutes with minimal disruption.
  • If you are unable or unwilling to give rescue breaths, give chest compressions only. Continue at a rate of 100 per minute.
  • It is possible to identify the correct hand position without removing the child's clothes.

Related topics

Please note:

These hints are no substitute for thorough knowledge of first aid! St John Ambulance holds first aid courses throughout the country.