When someone’s heart stops, every second matters. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) can keep a person alive until medical help arrives. You don’t need to be a doctor or nurse to do CPR, even everyday people can make a difference.
This guide explains how to safely perform CPR on adults, children, and infants. It also explains the legal protections available in the U.S. that give you the right to help without fear. Whether you’re trained or not, you can save a life with quick thinking and the right steps.
When to Start CPR
CPR is needed when a person’s heart stops beating or they stop breathing normally. This may happen due to a heart attack, drowning, drug overdose, or severe injury.
Signs to look for:
- The person is not moving or reacting.
- They are not breathing, or breathing is slow and gasping.
- You cannot feel a pulse.
If you’re not sure, it’s better to act. Doing CPR can keep oxygen flowing to the brain and body, increasing the chance of survival.
Before You Start: Keep Yourself Safe
Helping someone is important, but so is your safety. Before touching the person:
- Check the scene. Make sure there is no fire, traffic, or danger.
- Wear gloves if available.
- Use a face shield or CPR mask to avoid direct mouth contact if possible.
- Call for help. Shout for someone to call 911 or do it yourself if you’re alone.
CPR Steps for Adults (Age 12 and Up)
Step 1: Call 911 and Check Breathing
- Tap the person and shout, “Are you okay?” If no response and no normal breathing, call 911 or ask someone nearby to call.
Step 2: Start Chest Compressions
- Place your hands (one over the other) in the center of the chest.
- Push hard and fast , at least 2 inches deep.
- Do compressions at a rate of 100–120 per minute (think of the song “Stayin’ Alive”).
- Let the chest rise completely between compressions.
Step 3: Give Rescue Breaths (If Trained)
- Tilt the head back and lift the chin.
- Pinch the nose shut.
- Give 2 slow breaths while watching the chest rise.
- Continue 30 compressions + 2 breaths cycle.
If you’re not trained or don’t feel comfortable giving breaths, doing hands-only CPR is still very effective.
CPR for Children (Ages 1–11)
The process is similar, but use only one hand for chest compressions if the child is small.
Compression Depth: About 2 inches.
Breaths: Use smaller breaths than for adults. Watch for chest rise.
If you’re alone, give 2 minutes of CPR before calling 911, unless the child collapsed suddenly, then call first.
CPR for Infants (Under 1 Year)
Infants need a gentler approach:
Step 1: Check for breathing.
- Look for chest movement. Tap the foot and call their name.
Step 2: Give 30 Compressions
- Use two fingers in the center of the chest, just below the nipple line.
- Push down about 1.5 inches deep.
- Keep a steady rhythm: 100–120 per minute.
Step 3: Give 2 Gentle Breaths
- Cover the baby’s mouth and nose with your mouth.
- Blow small puffs of air, just enough to see the chest rise.
Repeat the cycle until help arrives or the baby starts breathing.
Using an AED (Automated External Defibrillator)
If an AED is available, use it right away. It gives voice instructions that tell you exactly what to do.
- Turn on the AED.
- Expose the chest and place pads as shown.
- Step back during the shock.
- Resume CPR if instructed.
AEDs can be used on adults, children, and even infants with the right pad size. They are found in many public places like schools, airports, and malls.
Legal Protection: What Good Samaritan Laws Say
Many people hesitate to give CPR because they fear legal trouble. But in the U.S., Good Samaritan laws protect people who help during an emergency.
Key points:
- These laws apply to bystanders who act in good faith.
- They protect you from lawsuits if something goes wrong, as long as you act reasonably and don’t expect payment.
- All 50 states and Washington, D.C. have some form of this protection.
If you are a trained first aider, you are still protected as long as you don’t act recklessly or outside your training.
Some states even require trained professionals to assist if they witness an emergency. In others, calling 911 may be enough.
How to Stay Safe While Giving CPR
You’re doing a good thing, but take care of yourself too. Here’s how:
- Use a barrier device if available. These small masks can fit on a keychain.
- Wash your hands after helping someone.
- If you’re exposed to blood or vomit, get medical advice right away.
- Watch your own body, performing CPR can be tiring and physically hard.
If you ever feel unsafe, step back and wait for emergency responders.
What If You’re Not Trained?
Even if you’ve never taken a CPR class, you can still help:
- Call 911 immediately.
- Put the phone on speaker so the dispatcher can guide you.
- Start chest compressions, push hard and fast in the center of the chest.
- Don’t stop unless the person wakes up, medical help arrives, or you become too tired.
Studies show that hands-only CPR by bystanders improves survival. You don’t need to be perfect; your effort can keep someone alive long enough for paramedics to take over.
When to Stop CPR
You can stop CPR if:
- The person starts breathing normally.
- A trained responder or paramedic takes over.
- The AED tells you to stop.
- You are too exhausted to continue.
It’s natural to feel nervous. But doing something is better than doing nothing.
Final Thoughts
CPR is a simple but powerful skill. With your hands, your breath, and your courage, you can save a life. You don’t need to be a hero, just someone who cares and takes action.
Here’s what to remember:
- Push hard and fast on the chest.
- Give breaths if you’re trained.
- Use an AED if you have one.
- Call 911 and follow their instructions.
- Don’t be afraid, U.S. laws protect you when you try to help.
CPR training only takes a few hours and can make a lifetime of difference. If you haven’t been trained yet, consider taking a class. But even without it, you have the power to help in an emergency.
Lives are saved every day by people just like you. Be ready, you might be someone’s only chance.
