Want to watch this video? Sign up for the course here. Or enter your email below to watch one free video.

Unlock This Video Now for FREE

This video is normally available to paying customers.
You may unlock this video for FREE. Enter your email address for instant access AND to receive ongoing updates and special discounts related to this topic.



Adult and older child CPR is performed by checking for patient responsiveness, contacting emergency services, and checking for breathing for up to 10 seconds. Next, perform 30 compressions at a rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute at a depth of 5 to 6 cm in the centre of the chest. Compressions should be the same speed on the push and the release.

These 30 compressions should be followed by two rescue breaths. The cycle should be repeated until an AED or the emergency services arrives. Do not waste time between the compressions and the breaths. It should just be a 5-10 second break in giving the compressions. It is vital to keep the oxygen rich blood pumping around the body, which is why compressions are so important.

Rescue breaths are carried out by opening the airway with the head tilt/chin lift, squeezing the soft part of the nose, and sealing your mouth around the victim's. Blow gently in for about one second or until you see the chest rise.