Performing CPR (cardio-pulmonary resuscitation) isn’t as complicated as you may think, and is a basic life-saving skill. CPR may be performed with chest compressions only, or a combination of chest compressions and rescue breaths.
How to carry out a chest compression:
Tip: If you get too tired, get someone else to take over if they are nearby. Even if they are not sure what to do, you can instruct them - it’s really vital to maintain the chest compressions.
If you’ve received training in CPR with rescue breaths and feel confident in using your skills in an emergency scenario, you should try to give both chest compressions combined with rescue breaths. If you’re not confident, just carry out hands-only CPR.
The technique for performing CPR with rescue breaths varies depending on the age of the casualty:
Remember
If you find someone not breathing, it is vital you call for help, dial 999, and start CPR. Ambulance service call takers are trained to give CPR guidance to help you so don’t worry if you cannot remember everything.
It is always worth attending a first aid course and learning CPR as you will be able to practice this life-saving skill on a CPR training manikin. More guidance on CPR and general first aid can be found in the current First Aid Manual.