How to Administer CPR and Rescue Breathing on an Adult

Administering cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and rescue breathing on an adult can be a life-saving skill to learn. Here are the steps you should follow to properly administer CPR and rescue breathing on an adult:

1. Call for Emergency Medical Services (EMS) or ask someone else to do it if you are alone. Explain the situation and provide your location.

2. Check the person’s responsiveness by tapping their shoulder and asking, “Are you okay?” If they do not respond, proceed to the next step.

3. Check the person’s breathing by tilting their head back with one hand and lifting their chin with the other. Look, listen, and feel for breaths for up to 10 seconds. If they are not breathing or are gasping for air, proceed to the next step.

4. Begin chest compressions. Place the heel of your hand on the center of the person’s chest, between the nipples. Place your other hand on top of the first hand, interlocking your fingers. Press down hard and fast, aiming for a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute. Continue chest compressions until EMS arrives or the person begins breathing on their own.

5. Administer rescue breaths. Tilt the person’s head back and lift their chin. Pinch their nose closed with your thumb and forefinger, and form a seal with your mouth over theirs. Blow into their mouth for one second, watching for their chest to rise. Repeat this step two more times, giving a total of three rescue breaths.

6. Continue chest compressions and rescue breathing. If the person is still not breathing, continue with chest compressions and rescue breaths in a cycle of 30 compressions followed by two breaths until EMS arrives or the person begins breathing on their own.

It is important to remember that proper training and certification in CPR and rescue breathing is recommended to ensure that you are properly prepared to administer these life-saving techniques.