Hands-Only CPR: Save a Life in Minutes
When cardiac arrest happens, every second counts. Most cardiac arrests occur at home, and the life you save could be someone you love—a child, spouse, parent, or friend. Immediate action can double or even triple a person’s chance of survival.
What Is Hands-Only CPR?
Hands-Only CPR is a simple, effective way to help a teen or adult who suddenly collapses. It’s easy to learn and can make all the difference before professional help arrives.
Why Learn Hands-Only CPR?
- Over 350,000 cardiac arrests happen outside of hospitals each year in the U.S.
- About 70% of these happen at home.
- Survival depends on someone nearby starting CPR right away.
- Hands-Only CPR can double or triple a cardiac arrest victim’s chance of survival.
Two Simple Steps to Save a Life
- Call 911 if you see a teen or adult suddenly collapse.
- Push hard and fast in the center of the chest—at a rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute. Use the beat of a familiar song like “Stayin’ Alive” by the Bee Gees to keep the right rhythm.
When to Use Hands-Only CPR
Hands-Only CPR is recommended for teens and adults who suddenly collapse. For infants, children, or victims of drowning, drug overdose, or breathing problems, conventional CPR with breaths is still recommended.
Learn More
Take 90 seconds to learn how to save a life. Watch the instructional video at heart.org/handsonlycpr and share it with your loved ones. For more in-depth training, find a CPR class near you at heart.org/findacourse.