Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is one of the leading causes of death among adults in the United States. When cardiac arrest happens, the heart suddenly stops beating effectively. Blood flow to the brain and vital organs stops.
Without CPR, a person in cardiac arrest will not survive.
Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) keeps blood moving to the brain and heart until advanced medical care arrives. CPR includes two parts: chest compressions and rescue breaths.
Every minute that passes without CPR lowers a person’s chance of survival. Starting CPR within 3–5 minutes can significantly improve survival and reduce brain damage.
It’s completely normal to feel nervous about stepping in. Many people worry they might hurt someone or make the situation worse. But cardiac arrest is already life-threatening. Doing something is always better than doing nothing. Broken ribs can heal. A stopped heart cannot.
You are more likely to perform CPR on a family member, friend, or coworker than on a stranger. Most states have Good Samaritan laws that protect people who provide emergency care in good faith.
This course follows the 2025 Emergency Cardiovascular Care (ECC) guidelines and is designed to help you act quickly, safely, and confidently.
