chapter 4: Adult CPR: Compressions
Once you determine the person is unresponsive and not breathing normally:
- Make sure they are lying face-up on a firm, flat surface.
- If face down, carefully roll them onto their back while supporting the head and neck.
- Move bulky clothing out of the way.
If you are trained to check a pulse, check for no more than 10 seconds.
- For adults and children, check the carotid artery in the neck.
- If you do not feel a pulse, or are unsure, begin CPR immediately.
If you are not trained in pulse checks, do not delay — begin compressions.
Hand Position
- Place the heel of one hand in the center of the chest on the lower half of the breastbone.
- Place your other hand on top.
- Interlace your fingers.
- Keep your arms straight.
- Position your shoulders directly over your hands.
Give Compressions
Push hard and fast.
Remember these four things:
Rate: 100–120 compressions per minute.
Depth: At least 2 inches (5 cm), but not more than 2.4 inches.
Recoil: Let the chest fully rise between compressions.
Don’t Stop: Do not interrupt compressions for more than 10 seconds.
CPR is hard work.
If a second rescuer is available:
- One person performs compressions.
- The other calls 9-1-1 and retrieves the AED.
- Switch roles about every 2 minutes to prevent fatigue.
- Remind each other to maintain proper depth, rate, and full recoil.
