🎓 Prepared by students from Boğaziçi University

What is CPR?

CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) is a life-saving first-aid technique that combines chest compressions and rescue breathing. It restarts blood circulation and breathing when someone's heart has stopped or they are in cardiac arrest.

Short answer

CPR is chest compressions plus rescue breaths performed at a 30:2 ratio (30 compressions to 2 breaths) with hand placement over the lower half of the breastbone at a rate of 100–120 compressions per minute.

CPR Step-by-Step

1
1. Check Responsiveness
Tap shoulders, shout 'Are you okay?'
↓
2
2. Call Emergency
Call 911 or local emergency services immediately
↓
3
3. Position Victim
Place on firm, flat surface (ground or floor)
↓
4
4. Hand Placement
Place heel of hand on lower breastbone, other hand on top
↓
5
5. Chest Compressions
Press down 5–6 cm at 100–120 compressions per minute
↓
6
6. Rescue Breaths
After 30 compressions, give 2 rescue breaths (tilt head back, pinch nose)
↓
7
7. Continue
Maintain 30:2 ratio until emergency arrives or victim recovers

Step-by-step worked examples

An adult collapses in the workplace with no pulse. Perform CPR.

1. Check responsiveness — no response
2. Call 911 immediately
3. Position victim on back on firm floor
4. Place heel of hand on lower breastbone, other hand on top
5. Perform 30 chest compressions at 100–120/min, pressing 5–6 cm deep
6. Tilt head back, pinch nose, give 2 rescue breaths (1 second each)
7. Continue 30:2 ratio until help arrives

How long should each rescue breath take?

Each rescue breath should last about 1 second
Give enough air to make the chest rise visibly
Watch for the chest to fall before the next breath

What is the correct compression rate for adult CPR?

Rate: 100–120 compressions per minute
Depth: 5–6 centimetres (about 2 inches)
Ratio: 30 compressions to 2 rescue breaths

Flashcards

Quick quiz

Q1.What is the standard compression rate for adult CPR?

Correct answer: B. The recommended rate is 100–120 compressions per minute.

Q2.How deep should chest compressions be?

Correct answer: C. Compressions must be 5–6 cm deep to effectively pump blood.

Q3.What is the first step in CPR?

Correct answer: B. Always check if the victim responds and call emergency services first.

Q4.CPR 30:2 ratio means…

Correct answer: B. 30:2 means 30 chest compressions followed by 2 rescue breaths.

📄Download this topic as a printable worksheet (PDF)Summary + 10 questions + answer key — print it, share it in class.↓

Study better with Bounlu apps

Notek

The full card deck, worked steps and AI-tutor support for “What is CPR?” are in Notek — study by hand before your exam.

Get it free

PromyNever miss an exam or homework deadline with Promy: AI turns the dates in your inbox into reminders automatically.

Common mistakes

✗

Pushing too lightly during compressions. — Correct: Compress at least 5–6 cm deep to effectively circulate blood.

✗

Compressing too quickly without maintaining the rhythm. — Correct: Maintain 100–120 compressions per minute consistently.

✗

Delaying CPR to wait for emergency services. — Correct: Start CPR immediately while calling 911 — early CPR saves lives.

✗

Tilting the head back before checking the airway. — Correct: Check responsiveness first, then open the airway for rescue breaths.

FAQ

What is CPR and why is it important?

CPR is cardiopulmonary resuscitation — chest compressions plus rescue breathing to restart the heart and blood flow. It is critical first aid that can save a life before emergency services arrive.

When should you start CPR?

Start CPR immediately when someone is unresponsive and not breathing normally. Call 911 first, then begin compressions.

Can CPR break ribs?

Rib fractures can occur, but they are a minor concern compared to saving a life. CPR at the correct depth is necessary and worth the risk of injury.

What should you do after CPR if the victim starts breathing?

Place the victim in the recovery position (on their side) to keep the airway open and monitor breathing until emergency services arrive.