How to Perform Single-Rescuer Hands-Only CPR

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is a life-saving technique that can be performed in emergency situations when someone is unresponsive and not breathing normally. In the case of single-rescuer hands-only CPR, immediate action is crucial to increase the chances of survival. Here's a step-by-step guide to performing this vital procedure effectively.

Step 1: Assess the Situation and Call for Help

Before approaching the victim, ensure the surrounding environment is safe for both you and the person in distress. Once safety is confirmed, check for responsiveness by gently tapping the person's shoulders and shouting, "Are you okay?" If there is no response and the person is not breathing normally, immediately call emergency services (such as 911) or ask nearby individuals to assist in making the call. Early activation of emergency medical services is essential for timely intervention.

Step 2: Check for Breathing and Responsiveness

Next, determine if the person is breathing by looking for chest movements, listening for breath sounds, and feeling for airflow. This should take no more than 10 seconds. At the same time, gently tap or shake the person's shoulders to check for any response. If there is no normal breathing and no response, it is likely that the person has experienced cardiac arrest, and CPR should begin immediately.

Checking for a Pulse

Although checking for a pulse can be difficult under stress, trained individuals may attempt to feel for a pulse in the carotid artery located in the neck. If no pulse is detected within 10 seconds, start chest compressions right away.

Step 3: Begin Chest Compressions

If the person is not breathing and has no pulse, begin high-quality chest compressions. Place the heel of one hand on the center of the chest, at the midpoint between the nipples, and place your other hand on top, interlocking your fingers. Keep your arms straight and shoulders directly above your hands. Compress the chest at a rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute, with a depth of approximately 2 to 2.4 inches (5–6 cm). Allow the chest to fully recoil after each compression, and maintain a consistent rhythm without pausing unnecessarily.

Combining Compressions with Rescue Breaths (if trained)

If you are trained in conventional CPR, follow the 30:2 ratio—perform 30 chest compressions followed by 2 rescue breaths. To give rescue breaths, open the airway using the head-tilt, chin-lift method, pinch the nose shut, and deliver breaths into the person's mouth while watching for chest rise. Continue this cycle of 30 compressions and 2 breaths until emergency medical help arrives or an automated external defibrillator (AED) becomes available.

Conclusion

Performing CPR promptly and correctly can significantly improve the likelihood of survival for someone experiencing cardiac arrest. If you are not trained in giving rescue breaths, hands-only CPR (chest compressions only) is still highly effective and recommended. The key is to act quickly and confidently, following the correct technique until professional medical assistance takes over.