Hands Only CPR for Adults

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Call 911 if a person:

  • Collapses

  • Becomes unresponsive

1. Check Responsiveness

  • Tap the person's shoulder and shout, "Are you OK?"

  • Look for normal breathing. Call 911 if there is no response.

  • Start Hands-Only CPR.

  • Hands-Only CPR should not be used for adults whose cardiac arrest is due to drug overdose, near-drowning, or an unwitnessed cardiac arrest. In these cases, do a conventional CPR combination of chest compressions and rescue breathing.

2. Do Chest Compressions

  • Place the heel of your hand on the center of the person's chest.

  • Place the heel of your other hand on top of your first hand, lacing fingers together.

  • Keep arms straight and your shoulders directly over your hands.

  • Push hard and fast, compressing chest at least 2 inches.

  • Let chest rise completely before pushing down again.

  • Compress at least 100 times per minute.

3. Stop Only if:

  • The person starts breathing normally.

  • A trained responder or emergency help takes over.

  • You are too exhausted to continue.

4. Use an AED as Soon as One Is Available

  • Turn on the AED. It will give you step-by-step instructions.

  • Wipe chest dry.

  • Attach the pads.

  • Plug in connector, if needed.

  • Make sure no one is touching the person. Say "Clear" so that people know to stay back and not touch the person.

  • Push the "Analyze" button if necessary.

  • If a shock is advised, push the "Shock" button.

  • Resume compressions and follow AED prompts.There is an automated external defibrillator (AED) to use.