How to perform CPR
Start with chest compressions:
- The heel of one hand must be placed in the centre of the chest – which is the bottom half of the sternum or breastbone.
- If in doubt of this position because of outer clothing, then remove or undo the outer clothing.
- Place your other hand on top and clasp them together with your arms locked straight.
- Push at a depth of 5 – 6 cm and at a speed of 100 – 120 compressions per minute.
Followed by rescue breaths:
- After 30 chest compressions, give your casualty 2 rescue breaths.
- The recognised methods for this action are either by mouth to mouth or mouth to nose.
- Both breaths should not take longer than 5 seconds.
- Repeat the process of 30 chest compressions followed by 2 rescue breaths for as long as you are physically able. If there is another trained person with you, you can ask them to take over if/when you get tired.
- If you are unable or unwilling to give 2 breaths for whatever reason, you must continue with chest compressions continuously and without delay.
Only Stop Resuscitation When:
- The casualty begins to breath on their own.
- The Emergency Services arrive to take over.
- You are too exhausted to continue.