Understanding “Hands-Only” CPR

What Is Hands-Only CPR?

Hands-Only CPR, also known as compression-only CPR, is a simplified form of CPR that involves only chest compressions, without the need for rescue breaths. It is recommended for use by bystanders who are not trained in traditional CPR or who may be uncomfortable providing rescue breaths. Hands-Only CPR focuses on maintaining blood circulation until professional medical help arrives.

Benefits of Hands-Only CPR

Hands-Only CPR offers several advantages:

1. Simplicity: Hands-Only CPR is easy to learn and remember, making it accessible to a broader range of people.
2. Minimized Risk: The absence of rescue breaths reduces the risk of disease transmission from mouth-to-mouth contact.
3. Greater Likelihood of Bystander Intervention: Many people may be more willing to perform Hands-Only CPR since it does not involve rescue breaths, which some find intimidating.
4. Increased Chances of Survival: Early initiation of chest compressions can maintain blood circulation, increasing the chances of survival until professional medical assistance arrives.

When to Use Hands-Only CPR

Hands-Only CPR is recommended in the following situations:

1. Unwitnessed Collapse: If you find an adult or adolescent who has collapsed, and you are unsure about their breathing or training status, initiate Hands-Only CPR by performing chest compressions.
2. Witnessed Collapse with No Breathing or Abnormal Breathing: If you witness an adult or adolescent collapse and they are not breathing normally (gasping or not breathing at all), start Hands-Only CPR immediately.

How to Perform Hands-Only CPR

Follow these steps to perform Hands-Only CPR effectively:

1. Check for Responsiveness: Tap the person's shoulder and shout, "Are you okay?" If they do not respond, assume they are in cardiac arrest.
2. Call for Help: If someone else is present, ask them to call 911 (or the local emergency number) and get an automated external defibrillator (AED) if available. If you are alone, perform CPR for about two minutes before making the call yourself.
3. Position Your Hands: Kneel beside the victim and place the heel of one hand in the center of the chest, just below the nipple line.
4. Perform Chest Compressions:
   • Use both hands and interlock your fingers.
   • Keep your elbows straight and your shoulders directly over your hands.
   • Push hard and fast, compressing the chest at least 2 inches deep at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute.
   • Allow the chest to recoil fully between compressions.
5. Continue Compressions: Perform continuous chest compressions until professional medical help arrives or the person shows signs of life, such as normal breathing.
6. Use an AED: If an AED becomes available, turn it on and follow the device's prompts. Resume chest compressions immediately after each shock if advised by the AED.

Hands-Only CPR is a valuable skill that can save lives in cases of cardiac arrest. It is a simplified and effective method that can be performed by bystanders who may not have formal CPR training. By recognizing when to use Hands-Only CPR and following the correct steps for chest compressions, you can significantly improve the chances of survival for someone experiencing a cardiac emergency until professional help arrives.