How to Perform CPR: A Step-by-Step Guide

Before performing CPR, ensure that the scene is safe for both you and the victim. Look for any potential hazards, and approach the victim carefully. Check if the victim is responsive by gently shaking their shoulder and asking if they are okay.

If the victim is unresponsive, call for emergency help immediately, or ask someone else to do so. If you are alone, use your mobile phone to call emergency services while remaining with the victim.

Look at the victim’s chest to see if it is rising and falling. Listen for breath sounds and feel for airflow. Do this for no more than 10 seconds. If the person is not breathing or is only gasping, you will need to begin CPR.

Carefully roll the victim onto their back if they aren’t already. Ensure they are on a firm, flat surface. Remove any obstructions from their mouth like a pillow or clothing to allow for effective compressions.

Kneel at the person's side and place the heel of one hand in the center of their chest. Place your other hand on top and interlock your fingers. Keep your arms straight and use your body weight to push down hard and fast, at a rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute, allowing the chest to rise completely between compressions.

If you are trained and willing to give rescue breaths, after every 30 compressions, give 2 rescue breaths. To do this, tilt the victim's head back slightly to open the airway, pinch the nose shut, take a normal breath, seal your lips around the victim's mouth, and give 2 breaths, each lasting about 1 second. Continue the cycle of 30 compressions and 2 breaths.

If an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is available, turn it on and follow the audio and visual prompts. Apply the pads on the bare chest of the victim as indicated and allow the AED to analyze their heart rhythm. If a shock is advised, ensure no one is touching the victim, and press the shock button.

Continue the cycle of compressions and rescue breaths (or just compressions if untrained) until emergency medical personnel arrive, the AED indicates no shock is needed, or the victim shows signs of life (breathing, moving).

Once help arrives or if the victim begins to regain consciousness, monitor their condition until emergency professionals take over. Be prepared to provide any information they might need regarding the incident, including how long CPR was performed.