When to Stop CPR: Understanding Pulse and Heart Rate

Yes, you can stop CPR when a person has a pulse. Once a person has a pulse, it means their heart is beating and they are circulating oxygenated blood throughout their body. At this point, CPR is no longer necessary and can actually be harmful.

If you are performing CPR on someone, be sure to check for a pulse before continuing with compressions and rescue breaths. If the person does not have a pulse, continue CPR until emergency medical help arrives or the person starts breathing and has a pulse.