Eight Things NOT To Do When Performing CPR

Medical emergencies are emotionally charged situations; basic training in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) will help you manage any nervous energy and equip you with the tools and strategies to help keep you focused.

Remember, in any emergency situation, it’s important to stay calm and rely on your training. If you find yourself in an emergency situation and performing CPR techniques, consider your training and remember what not do:

Don’t become another victim.
The worst thing rescuers can do is put themselves in danger. Follow CPR instructions, such as using “universal precautions” and wearing personal protective equipment, to ensure that you don’t cause harm to yourself or further harm to the individual who is hurt or ill.
Don’t forget to call 911.
Once you’ve begun lifesaving measures, you may need further support and assistance. Calling 911 for an emergency response team can help save an individual’s life.
Don’t lose contact with the patient’s chest during compressions.
Don't let your hands bounce during chest compressions; instead, keep the heel of your hand in contact with the individual’s sternum at all times. Pops and snaps when you first begin chest compressions are normal; you’re not making the patient any worse than he or she already was.
Don’t initiate rescue breaths if you’re not trained.
Training in CPR can make you an invaluable resource. But if you haven’t been properly trained, simply perform chest compressions until trained emergency assistance arrives.
Don’t bend your arms.
As per CPR instructions, when performing chest compressions, it’s important to keep your arms and elbows straight and push straight down with your entire upper body weight (not just your arms).
Don’t move too fast or too slow.
To get blood circulating again, chest compressions can be quite useful. Remember, to help restore circulation, move at a rate of 100 compressions per minute, giving two rescue breaths after 30 compressions if you feel comfortable and are trained in doing so.
Don’t use two hands when performing CPR on a child.
Most of the CPR techniques for administering CPR on a child (usually ages 1 through 8) are the same as for an adult, with the exception of chest compressions. Use only one hand on a child, versus two hands on an adult.
Don’t “do nothing.”
Doing something is always better than doing nothing – the difference could save someone’s life.

Health Ed Solutions is a valuable resource for learning CPR techniques and lifesaving skills. Along with first aid certification online, CPR and AED certification online, Health Ed Solutions offers bloodborne pathogens training online as well.

The information included in this article is based on the 2020 guidelines for CPR, first aid and advanced cardiovascular care. Read more about the 2020 first aid guidelines.