Adult CPR: A Step-by-Step Guide to Life-Saving Techniques

Knowing CPR is critical. It keeps oxygenated blood flowing to the brain and heart to help keep a person alive, but usually will not restart her heart. CPR for children and adults is different.

Instructions

CPR for an Adult

• 1

  Check for unresponsiveness. Shake the person, call out to him, rub your knuckles hard against his sternum. If unresponsive, continue to step 2.

• 2

  Direct someone to call 911. If alone, call 911 before you do anything else.

• 3

  Open the airway and check for breathing. Look, listen and feel for normal breathing. If there is no sign of breathing, give two slow breaths, about 2 seconds for each. Watch to see if the chest rises and falls to ensure the air reaches the lungs.

• 4

  Check for signs of circulation by feeling for a pulse on the neck or wrist.

• 5

  Begin chest compression if there are no signs of circulation. Locate the sternum and do 15 chest compressions at a rate of 100 per minute.

• 6

  Give two more deep, slow breaths.

• 7

  Repeat 15 chest compressions, followed by two slow breaths until medical help arrives.

• 8

  If the victim recovers, place in a recovery position and monitor until medical help arrives.