How to Perform CPR: A Life-Saving Guide

CPR / First Aid
Written By Iman Blackwell

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is a simple but powerful technique that can save a life during an emergency. If someone’s heart stops beating or they stop breathing, performing CPR can keep their blood flowing and provide oxygen to their brain and vital organs until professional help arrives.

Why CPR Is Important

When the heart stops beating, blood stops flowing to the brain and body. Without oxygen, brain damage can occur within minutes, and the chances of survival decrease rapidly. CPR acts as an artificial pump, keeping blood and oxygen moving through the body. It doesn’t restart the heart, but it keeps the person alive until advanced medical care can restore their heartbeat. Essentially, you are acting as the persons heart beat. This why high-quality CPR is so important.

How do you know when to perform CPR: 3 SIGNS

You should perform CPR if the person:

  1. Has no pulse.

  2. Is unresponsive.

  3. Is not breathing normally (gasping or not breathing at all).

How to Perform CPR

  1. Check the Scene for Safety: Make sure the area is safe before helping.

  2. Check for Signs of Life:

    • Tap the person and shout, “Are you okay?”

    • Look for breathing, movement, or any response. Check for a pulse for no more than 10 seconds.

  3. Call 911:

    • If you’re alone, call 911 first or put your phone on speaker mode.

    • Ask someone nearby to grab an automated external defibrillator (AED) if available.

  4. Start Chest Compressions:

    • Place the heel of one hand in the center of the chest and the other hand on top.

    • Push hard and fast, at least 2 inches deep, at a rate of 100–120 compressions per minute. (Sing Stayin’ Alivein your head—it’s the perfect tempo!)

  5. Add Rescue Breaths (if trained):

    • Tilt the head back, lift the chin, and pinch the nose shut.

    • Give two breaths, making the chest rise with each one.

    • Continue with 30 compressions and 2 breaths in a cycle.

  6. Don’t Stop: Keep going until the person starts breathing on their own or emergency responders take over.

Empower Yourself to Save a Life

Every second counts in an emergency, and knowing how to perform CPR could save a loved one, a friend, or even a stranger. It’s simple to learn and incredibly impactful.

At IMANURSE Academy, we offer CPR training classes that prepare you for real-life emergencies. Take the first step in becoming someone’s hero—because saving a life starts with knowing how.

Iman Blackwell