How to Perform CPR Step by Step (Adults, Children & Infants)

When Should You Perform CPR?

CPR is needed when someone is:

• Unresponsive
• Not breathing normally
• Showing signs of cardiac arrest — no movement, no response

Step 1: Call Emergency Services

Before starting CPR:

• Call 999 or 112
• Ask someone nearby to locate a defibrillator (AED) if one is available

Early emergency response greatly increases survival chances.

Step 2: Start Chest Compressions (Adults)

Hand position:

• Place the heel of one hand in the centre of the chest
• Place your other hand on top and interlock your fingers

Compressions:

• Push hard and fast
• Depth: about 5 to 6 cm
• Rate: 100 to 120 compressions per minute

Let the chest fully rise between compressions.

Step 3: Add Rescue Breaths (If Trained)

After every 30 compressions:

• Tilt the head back and lift the chin
• Pinch the nose shut
• Give 2 breaths, about 1 second each

Repeat: 30 compressions, then 2 breaths

If you are not confident giving rescue breaths, perform hands-only CPR — it still saves lives. You can read more in our FAQ on whether compression-only CPR is effective.

CPR for Children (1 Year to Puberty)

The process is similar to adult CPR, but with slight adjustments:

• Use one hand instead of two, depending on the size of the child
• Compress to about one third of the chest depth
• Maintain the same rhythm — 100 to 120 compressions per minute

Be firm but controlled — children still need effective compressions to maintain circulation.

CPR for Infants (Under 1 Year)

Infant CPR requires extra care and a different technique:

Compressions:

• Use two fingers in the centre of the chest
• Compress to about one third of the chest depth

Breaths:

• Cover both the mouth and nose with your mouth
• Give gentle puffs of air

Continue with 30 compressions followed by 2 breaths, the same as for adults.

Step 4: Use a Defibrillator (AED) as Soon as Possible

If an AED is available, use it immediately alongside CPR. As covered in our Cardiac First Responder course, AED use is a core skill that anyone can learn.

• Turn it on immediately
• Follow the voice instructions
• Attach the pads as shown on the device

The AED will only deliver a shock if one is needed — it is safe to use. See our FAQ for a full explanation of how a defibrillator works.

Why CPR Is So Important

• Brain damage can begin in as little as 4 minutes of cardiac arrest
• CPR keeps oxygen flowing to the brain and vital organs
• A defibrillator is often needed to restart the heart

CPR buys time — but acting fast is critical.

Common Concerns About CPR

Can I do CPR wrong?

It is always better to try than do nothing. In a cardiac arrest situation, you cannot make things worse by attempting CPR. Read more in our frequently asked questions.

Can CPR break ribs?

It can happen, especially in adults — but saving a life is far more important than the risk of a rib injury.

Do I need training?

While anyone can attempt CPR, training gives you the confidence to act quickly and correctly. Our Cardiac First Responder Course covers CPR for adults, children, and infants using hands-on practice with training manikins.

Final Thoughts

CPR is one of the most important life-saving skills anyone can learn.

In an emergency, you will not have time to think — you will rely on what you know. Taking a few hours to learn CPR could one day help you save a friend, a loved one, or even a stranger.

If you want to feel confident handling a real emergency, get in touch or learn more about the course. Small groups, expert instruction, and hands-on practice — everything you need to be ready when it matters most.