Take a Class CPR Performing CPR Hands Only CPR
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  • Hands-Only CPR for Adults

    What is Hands-Only CPR? If you are not trained in full CPR, Hands-only CPR is CPR without rescue breaths which is simple to learn and easy to remember, especially outside medical settings. It increases the likelihood of surviving cardiac arrest, when the heart stops beating or beats too ineffectively to circulate blood to the brain and other vital organs. For a refresher any time, you can print this page and keep it with the rest of your first-aid supplies. Print this page

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    Before Giving CPR

    1

    Check the scene and the person. Check to make sure the scene is safe, tap the person on the shoulder to see if they're OK, and look for signs of rhythmic, normal breathing.

    2

    Call 911 for assistance. If there's no response from the victim when asked if he or she is OK, call 911, or ask a bystander to call for help.

    3

    Begin compressions. If the person is unresponsive, perform hands-only CPR.

    How to Perform Hands-Only CPR

    1

    Ensure the person is on their back on a firm, flat surface

    2

    Kneel beside the person

    • Your knees should be near the person’s body and spread about shoulder width apart
    3

    Use correct hand placement

    • Place the heel of one hand in the center of their chest, with your other hand on top
    • Interlace your fingers and make sure they are up off the chest
    4

    Use correct body position

    • Position your body so that your shoulders are directly over your hands
    • Lock your elbows to keep your arms straight
    5

    Give continuous compressions

    • Push hard and fast (at least 2 inches; 100 to 120 compressions per minute)
    6

    Allow chest to return to its normal position after each compression


    Be prepared for moments that matter by taking a CPR class today.

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