Does Calling 911 After a Fall Guarantee CPR? No—Here’s Why

CPR is initiated only if the patient is in cardiac arrest (unresponsive, no normal breathing, no pulse). A fall alone does not mandate CPR.

EMS Assessment Sequence

1. Scene safety
2. Responsiveness (tap/shout)
3. Breathing check (≤10 sec)
4. Pulse check (≤10 sec) – if absent → CPR + AED
5. If breathing/pulse present → trauma assessment, spinal precautions, transport.

Key Point

Bystanders should call 911 immediately for any fall with injury, altered mental status, or anticoagulant use. Dispatchers guide CPR if needed. Never assume CPR is automatic.