CPR Step-by-Step Guide

*Remember, if you’re in an emergency to call 000 (triple zero), follow our step-by-step guide on how to perform CPR on adults or children over the age of 8.

The information below does not replace CPR and First Aid Training.*

Before beginning CPR

Remember the DRSABCD Plan.

Once you reach the letter C follow the guide.

D- Danger. Look for danger around you and assess before approaching the casualty.

R- Response. Are they responding to your voice? Are they moving or breathing?

S- Send. Send for help and call 000.

A- Airway. Check the airway is clear and unobstructed,

B- Breath. Check they are breathing.

C- CPR.

D- Defibrillator.

CPR

Starts with Chest Compressions…

1. Kneel beside the casualty and place them on a firm surface- ideally on their back

2. The heel of your hand should sit in the centre of the chest, between the nipple line, whilst your other hand is interlocked on top

3. Straighten your arms and position yourself above the casualty as shown below.

4. Push down with the weight of your body to roughly 1/3 the depth of their chest

5. Release the pressure and push down again

After 30 compressions, give 2 rescue breaths

6. Place one hand on their forehead and the other hand under their chin to tilt their head back

7. Pinch their nose with your thumb and index finger and use the other hand to open their mouth

8. Take a breath and form a seal around the patient’s mouth. Blow for a second or so and look for a rise and fall in the chest. Then give a second breath.

9. Repeat the process, aiming to do 5 cycles per 2 minutes. If you get tired swap with someone every 5 cycles.

Using an AED

Most businesses have an AED so if one is available make sure to use it.

Place the pads on the casualty as shown in the instructions.

The AED will analyse the heart’s rhythm every two minutes and may deliver a shock to the patient. The machine will announce for you to step away before the shock is delivered.

Keep performing CPR between every analysis.

When to Stop CPR

Only stop CPR if:

The person returns to breathing normally
It is impossible to continue
A health care professional takes over
The situation is too dangerous to keep going

If the Patient Starts Breathing:

Continue to monitor them and place them in the recovery position.