Hands only CPR

When someone is in cardiac arrest, seconds count! The sooner you recognise the emergency and begin compressions, the better the chance of survival. 

It isn't complicated, though. 

1. Tap on the person's shoulders and call their name. If they move, moan or speak they do not require CPR. If nothing happens though, check for breathing. Take no more than 10 seconds looking for their chest to rise.

2. You'll need to call for help by dialling either 999 or 112. Put the phone on speaker mode so you can continue talking to the call taker as you help the ill individual. Don't forget to yell for help as well! If someone is nearby, you can spell each other off as you provide compressions or have that person leave to go find you an AED, or Automated External Defibrillator. 

3. If they are not responding to you and not breathing, you will need to begin CPR. If possible,  move clothes out of the way and put the heel of your hand (with the other hand on top of this) in the centre of their chest, in line with the nipples.

You will need to press hard (down 5 cm or 2 inches) and fast (100 to 120 beats per minute). The call taker will still be with you on the phone and will help to ensure you're going at the right rate. 

Make sure to let the chest return to its' normal position after each compression. You do not need to take your hands off the chest, merely release the pressure. 

4. Don't stop! Even when emergency personnel arrive, stay going until they are in position to take over and they tell you to stop. 

Please Note: Providing CPR to a child or an infant is slightly different. If you would like to learn more about either of these or review the steps to provide compressions to an adult, please consider attending one of our classes. More information about the dates and times of classes can be found in the Training Courses and Fundraising Events tab of this website.