First, take a class on how to give CPR. Then use the chart below as a reference.
What to do
Adults and older children who have reached puberty
Young children until the age of puberty
Babies younger than 1 year
When to call for help
Call 911, or ask someone to call, and get an AED, if there is one nearby.
A 911 operator can give you instructions on how to do CPR.
If you're alone and don't have a phone nearby, start CPR. Do CPR for 2 minutes, and then find a phone to call 911.
If the person is not breathing normally or is gasping, find the spot to do chest compressions.
Place two fingers on the spot where the ribs come together. Put the heel of your other hand just above your fingers on the breastbone.
(See a picture of hand placement for chest compressions.)
Place two fingers on the breastbone just below the nipple line.
(See a picture of hand placement for chest compressions on a baby.)
How do you give chest compressions?
Use the heel of one hand with the other hand stacked on top of it. Lace your fingers together.
Use the heel of one hand. If you need more force for a larger child, use both hands as you would for an adult.
Use two fingers.
How fast should you do compressions?
Do at least 100 compressions per minute (between 1 and 2 per second).
How far down should you press the chest?
Press the chest down at least 2 inches (5 cm).
Press the chest down at least one-third of the depth of the child's chest [about 2 in. (5 cm)].
Press the chest down at least one-third of the depth of the baby's chest.
If you are trained in CPR, how many compressions and breaths do you give?
30 compressions, 2 breaths. Repeat this 30/2 cycle until help arrives or person breathes on their own.
Note: If you are not trained in CPR with rescue breathing, it is important to continue doing chest compressions.
30 compressions, 2 breaths. Repeat this 30/2 cycle until help arrives or child breathes on their own.
30 compressions, 2 breaths. Repeat this 30/2 cycle until help arrives or baby breathes on their own.
(See a picture of rescue breathing for babies.)
Automated external defibrillators (AEDs) are machines that are programmed to safely deliver an electrical shock to a person who is in cardiac arrest. In cardiac arrest, the heart suddenly stops beating. The AED checks the heart. Then a shock may be given to help the heart start beating normally again. Each AED has instructions for that machine.
AEDs are in many public places. Before you use one, follow all the steps for CPR. To use an AED, place it next to the person who has collapsed and turn it on. The AED has a computer inside that will tell you what to do next.
Current as of: July 31, 2024
Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff Clinical Review Board All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
Next Section:
Previous Section:
Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff
Clinical Review Board All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Learn how we develop our content.
To learn more about Ignite Healthwise, LLC, visit webmdignite.com.
© 2024 Ignite Healthwise, LLC. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Ignite Healthwise, LLC.
Find our contact forms and phone numbers or give feedback on a recent experience using Care to Share.
View test results, schedule appointments, or request prescription refills from the convenience of your computer or mobile device.
Learn about health system news and meet new providers in Progress Notes, Lancaster General Health's provider newsletter.
Want to make a payment without a MyLGHealth account? Click the "Pay as Guest" button below.