Knowing how to perform adult CPR correctly can mean the difference between life and death during a cardiac emergency. When the heart stops, immediate CPR helps circulate oxygen-rich blood to the brain and vital organs until professional help arrives.

Proper training through CPR certification ensures you are prepared to act confidently when seconds matter.

When Should You Start Adult CPR?

You should begin CPR if an adult:

  • Is unresponsive
  • Is not breathing normally (or not breathing at all)
  • Has no signs of circulation

Early action is critical to survival.

Step 1: Ensure Scene Safety and Check Responsiveness

Before helping:

  • Make sure the area is safe
  • Tap the person and shout loudly
  • Look for any response

If there is no response, call emergency services immediately or ask someone nearby to call.

Step 2: Call for Help and Get an AED

If available:

  • Ask someone to bring an AED
  • Put the phone on speaker and follow dispatcher instructions

AEDs are safe and designed for public use alongside CPR.

Step 3: Check Breathing

Look for normal breathing for no more than 10 seconds:

  • Gasping or irregular breathing is not normal
  • If the person is not breathing normally, start CPR

Training via online CPR certification teaches how to recognize these signs quickly.

Step 4: Start Chest Compressions

Proper Hand Placement and Technique

  • Place the heel of one hand in the center of the chest
  • Put your other hand on top and interlock fingers
  • Keep arms straight and shoulders over hands

Compression Guidelines

  • Rate: 100–120 compressions per minute
  • Depth: At least 2 inches (5 cm)
  • Allow full chest recoil after each compression

High-quality compressions are the foundation of effective CPR.

Get Your CPR Certification Today

Step 5: Give Rescue Breaths (If Trained)

If you are trained and comfortable:

  • After 30 compressions, give 2 rescue breaths
  • Tilt the head back and lift the chin
  • Each breath should last 1 second and make the chest rise

If you are not trained, perform hands-only CPR with continuous compressions.

Step 6: Use the AED as Soon as It Arrives

When the AED is available:

  • Turn it on and follow voice prompts
  • Attach pads as instructed
  • Continue CPR when advised

AED use is a key part of basic life support certification training.

Step 7: Continue CPR Until Help Arrives

Do not stop CPR unless:

  • Emergency professionals take over
  • The person shows signs of life
  • You are physically unable to continue
  • The scene becomes unsafe

Persistence saves lives.

Why Formal CPR Training Matters

While guides are helpful, hands-on education improves performance and confidence. Programs offering CPR and first aid certification ensure responders are ready for a wide range of emergencies.

Learn CPR the Convenient Way

Busy schedules shouldn’t prevent lifesaving education. With CPR online classes, learners can:

  • Train anytime, anywhere
  • Learn at their own pace
  • Stay prepared for emergencies

Accessibility increases the number of trained responders.

Final Thoughts: Correct CPR Saves Lives

Performing adult CPR correctly keeps oxygen flowing to the brain and heart until advanced care arrives. Knowing the steps—and practicing them through proper training—empowers anyone to act decisively in an emergency.

Learn CPR.
Act with confidence.
Save a life.

Get Your CPR Certification Today