The Basic Steps of Basic First Aid

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation, or CPR, is a life-saving technique that involves giving rescue breaths and chest compressions to victims with cardiac arrest. CPR helps deliver a small amount of oxygen and blood movement that delays brain damage until normal heart function is restored with advance life support. All medical and health professionals must be trained in CPR, although non-health personnel should learn CPR, too, to help save lives in unexpected situations.

Step 1

Check the scene to make sure the environment is safe to approach before administering CPR to the victim. If there are bystanders, tell someone nearby to call 911 immediately. Roll the victim gently onto his back if he is lying on the side or on the stomach. Tap or shake the victim on the shoulder, and ask loudly, “Are you OK?”

Step 2

Kneel next to the victim’s head and shoulders. Place the heel of one hand over the center of the victim’s chest above the sternum. Place your other hand on top of the first hand. Keep your elbows straight and put your shoulders directly above your hands. Push down into the body by using your upper body, not your arms. Compress at least 2 inches into the chest at a rate of 100 compressions per minute.

Step 3

Check the victim’s airway by placing your palm on the forehead and gently tilting the head back after at least 30 chest compressions. Lift the chin forward to open the airway with your other hand. Check to see if there’s breathing for no more than five to 10 seconds. Look for chest movement or feel for air moving in and out of the nose or mouth.

Step 4

Begin rescue breathing if you cannot detect any normal breathing. Pinch the victim’s nostril shut, and place your mouth completely over the victim’s mouth, forming a seal. Give two rescue breaths by blowing air into the victim’s mouth, and see if the chest rises and falls. Give 30 compressions after rescue breathing. Repeat Steps 2 to 4 until the victim resumes normal breathing, you are too exhausted to continue or advance life support arrives.