The American Heart Association (AHA) defines adult CPR as appropriate for any person over the age of 8 years old or post-adolescence, which can be identified by:
This lesson covers both hands-only CPR for laypersons and full BLS for healthcare providers (HCPs).
| Condition | Action for Lay Rescuers | Action for Healthcare Providers |
|---|---|---|
| No normal breathing, no pulse | Hands-only CPR (compressions only) | Full CPR (30:2 compressions-to-breaths) |
| No normal breathing, pulse present | Monitor the victim until help arrives | Rescue breathing (1 breath every 5-6 seconds) |
| Normal breathing, pulse present | Stay with the victim & monitor | Stay with the victim & monitor |