CPR: Mouth‑to‑Mouth & Chest Compression Steps

Adult CPR (Lay Rescuer) – 2020 AHA Guidelines

  1. Check Responsiveness: Tap, shout “Are you okay?”
  2. Call 911 / Activate EMS: Send someone for AED.
  3. Check Breathing: Look for absent or only gasping.
  4. Chest Compressions:
    • Heel of hand on lower half of sternum.
    • Depth ≥2 in (5 cm), rate 100‑120/min.
    • Allow full recoil; minimize interruptions.
  5. Rescue Breaths (if trained/willing):
    • Head tilt–chin lift; pinch nose; seal mouth.
    • 2 breaths (1 sec each) watching chest rise.
    • Ratio 30:2 (compressions:breaths).
  6. Continue: Until AED arrives, EMS takes over, or victim moves/breathes normally.

Hands‑Only CPR

If untrained/unwilling to give breaths: continuous compressions 100‑120/min. Still highly effective for witnessed adult cardiac arrest.

AED Use

Power on → attach pads → follow voice prompts → shock if advised → resume CPR immediately.

Breathwork - Related Articles