Make sure the scene is safe
Pause and check for traffic, fire, electricity, or anything else that could harm you.
Adult CPR
Simple steps to help you recognize cardiac arrest, call for help, and begin CPR with confidence.
About a 5-minute lesson
Is this happening right now?
Call 911Call 911 immediately and follow the dispatcher’s instructions.
Start CPR when an adult is:
Unresponsive
Not breathing normally or only gasping
A lay responder should not delay CPR while trying to find a pulse.
What to do
Six Adult CPR Steps
Check for a response and normal breathing
Tap the person’s shoulder and shout. Look for normal breathing for no more than 10 seconds. Gasping is not normal breathing.
Call 911 and get an AED
Call 911, put your phone on speaker, and follow the dispatcher’s instructions. Send someone to get an AED if one is nearby.
Begin chest compressions
Place two hands in the center of the chest. Push hard and fast at 100–120 compressions per minute, at least 2 inches deep. Let the chest rise fully after each push.
Add breaths if you’re trained
Give 30 compressions followed by 2 breaths. If you aren’t trained or don’t feel able to give breaths, continue hands-only CPR.
Use the AED as soon as it arrives
Turn it on, attach the pads, and follow its spoken directions. Resume CPR immediately when instructed.
Remember
Speaker on. Hands ready.
Put your phone on speaker so the 911 dispatcher can guide you while you begin CPR.