What is Hands-Only CPR?

Hands-Only CPR is a simplified form of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Hands-Only CPR, also known as compression-only CPR. It involves providing high-quality chest compressions to a person experiencing cardiac arrest without the need for mouth-to-mouth breathing. This technique aims to maintain blood circulation to vital organs, particularly the heart, and brain until professionals significantly increase the chances of survival for someone in cardiac arrest. Whether you’re at home, at work, or out in public, knowing how to perform Medical help arrives.

The main component of Hands-Only CPR is chest compressions. Chest Compressions are delivered continuously and forcefully to the center of the person’s chest at a rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute and a depth of at least 2 inches (about 5 centimeters).

What’s the difference between Traditional CPR and Hands-only CPR?

Traditional CPR and Hands-Only CPR are quite different in terms of techniques and approaches to resuscitation. Traditional CPR involves a combination of compressions and rescue breaths, where rescuers provide cycles of 30 chest compressions followed by 2 breaths to the patient.

In contrast, Hands-only CPR focuses solely on continuous, high-quality chest compressions without rescue breaths. This simple technique is recommended for untrained individuals or bystanders who are hesitant or unable to perform rescue breathing. Hands-only CPR is equally effective as conventional CPR for adults in cardiac arrest, and most people also find it easy to perform it.

Although both techniques aim to maintain blood circulation and oxygen delivery to vital organs like the heart and brain, the choice between bystander CPR and conventional CPR depends on factors such as rescuer training, comfort level, and specific circumstances of the emergency.

What is the purpose of Hands-only CPR?

The purpose of hands-only CPR is to provide immediate assistance to individuals experiencing cardiac arrest. Hands-only CPR delivers enough oxygen to the heart and the brain. The primary goal is to maintain blood circulation by effectively compressing the chest. Unlike conventional CPR, it focuses solely on compressions and does not require rescue breaths. Hence, it is widely promoted due to its ease of learning and implementation, making it accessible to a larger portion of the population and potentially saving more lives in emergencies.

Why should you use Hands-Only CPR?

First and foremost, Hands-Only CPR is easier to perform and can be initiated immediately by bystanders who witness a sudden cardiac arrest. Here are several reasons why one should use Hands-Only CPR during cardiac emergencies:

• It requires no specialized training, making it accessible to anyone.
• It can be performed on adults, increasing the potential pool of responders.
• Even the major health organizations, including the American Heart Association and the American Red Cross, recommend hands-only CPR for breathing problems.
• When you perform compressions promptly, Hands-Only CPR increases the chances of survival.
• Hands-only CPR can be performed in various settings, including public places, homes, and workplaces.
• It also helps to minimize the risk of transmission of infectious diseases compared to traditional CPR with mouth-to-mouth breaths.
• Many research shows the effectiveness of Hands-Only CPR in improving the outcomes for cardiac arrest victims.

Who should perform Hands-only CPR?

Anyone can perform Hands-Only CPR because it is a simple process to perform. Though it targets bystanders, people with CPR knowledge can also perform Hands-only CPR. It is especially beneficial for people who are uncomfortable or hesitant to perform mouth-to-mouth breaths. Because it involves only compressions, bystanders can feel at ease and perform the steps effectively in emergencies. Individuals with basic CPR training who are unsure about providing rescue breaths can also perform rescue breaths to maintain circulation and support the person in need until professional medical assistance arrives. Therefore, anyone present at the scene of emergency able to perform compressions should perform Hands-Only CPR.

When should you perform Hands-Only CPR?

Hands-Only CPR should be performed when someone suddenly collapses and is unresponsive. If you witness a person experiencing sudden cardiac arrest, promptly assess the situation for safety, then check for responsiveness by tapping and shouting at the victim. If there is no response and the victim is not breathing normally, you need to immediately begin Hands-Only CPR by delivering forceful chest compressions. Remember to call 911 as soon as possible to activate professional medical assistance.

Related Post: How Can You Achieve a High Chest Compression Fraction?

Can anyone learn Hands-Only CPR?

Yes, anyone can learn Hands-Only CPR. The techniques used on it are simple and designed to be accessible to people of all ages and backgrounds. It’s easy to learn and perform whether you are a trained healthcare provider or have no CPR experience. Though simple, it’s a very effective way to respond to cardiac emergencies. By learning Hands-Only CPR, you can play a vital role in saving the lives of people who face sudden cardiac arrest, be it in the home, office, or public spaces. With a few simple steps, you can double or triple their chance of survival. Now, many healthcare organizations offer Hands-on CPR training to ensure participants feel confident and prepared to act in emergencies.

What are the Correct Steps for Hands-Only CPR?

Hands-Only CPR involves providing continuous chest compressions to someone who has collapsed and is unresponsive. This simple approach is more suitable for rescuers who experience such situations in their presence. It eliminates the need for rescue breaths, making it more accessible for bystanders to intervene in emergencies. Here are the correct steps to perform Hands-Only CPR when you experience one:

Step 1: The first step in performing Hands-Only CPR is to assess the situation and ensure that it is safe for both you and the victim. Immediately take your cell phone out and call 911 to activate EMS.

Step 2: The next step is to check for responsiveness. Gently tap the victim’s shoulder and shout, “Are you okay?” Check if the person is responsive or shows any signs of consciousness. If the person is unresponsive and not breathing normally or only gasping, call 911 immediately or instruct someone nearby to call.

Step 3: Now place the person on their back on a firm flat surface. Ensure their airway is clear by tilting their head back slightly.

Step 4: Now perform chest compressions. Follow these steps to perform compressions:

• Kneel beside the victim’s chest.
• Place the heel of one hand on the center of the victim’s chest, right between the nipples.
• Place your other hand on top of the first hand, interlocking your fingers.
• Position your shoulders directly over your hands and keep your arms straight.
• Push hard and fast in the center, aiming for a compression depth of at least two inches (about 5 centimeters).
• Keep pushing hard and perform compressions at a rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute. 
• Allow the chest to fully recoil between compressions to enable blood flow.

Step 5: Keep performing compressions until paramedics arrive or the person shows signs of movement, such as normal breathing, coughing, or opening their eyes.

Learn Hands-Only CPR: Join CPR training at Heart Start CPR

The American Heart Association recommends Hands-Only CPR for bystanders and individuals who witness an adult suddenly collapse due to cardiac arrest. Hands-Only CPR can be easily learned through CPR training. It’s easy to learn and can be performed by anyone, anywhere, without the need for rescue breaths. Therefore, don’t hesitate to join CPR classes today to save someone’s life and become a true hero in your community. In just a few minutes, you can gain the skills to make a life-saving difference in emergencies for your loved ones, colleagues, or strangers in need.