Hands-Only CPR: 2 Steps That Can Save a Life

If an adult suddenly collapses, what you do in the next few minutes matters. The American Heart Association says C P R from someone nearby can double, or even triple, their chance of survival. And Hands Only C P R has just two steps.

1. Step 1: Call 911

If a teen or adult collapses and isn't responding, call nine one one right away, or have someone else call while you start. Put the phone on speaker. The dispatcher can guide you.

2. Step 2: Hands On The Chest

Kneel beside them. Put the heel of one hand in the center of their chest, and your other hand on top. Lock your elbows, with your shoulders right over your hands.

3. Push Hard And Fast

Push hard and fast. About two inches deep, at a rate of one hundred to one hundred twenty pushes a minute. Let the chest come all the way back up between pushes.

4. Find The Beat

That's fast. The Heart Association suggests pushing to the beat of a song you know with about one hundred to one hundred twenty beats per minute.

5. Use An Aed If There Is One

If someone brings an A E D, turn it on and follow its voice instructions. It tells you exactly what to do.

6. Don'T Stop

Keep pushing until help arrives, or the person starts breathing normally. If someone else can take a turn, switch every couple of minutes so you don't tire out.

7. Take A Class

This video is a quick refresher, not a replacement for training. Children and babies need a different approach. A short C P R class teaches it hands on, and builds real confidence.