Hands-Only CPR

Hands-only (compression-only) CPR is for bystanders who witness an adult suddenly collapse in an "out of the hospital" setting. It's recommended if you haven't had CPR training, or if you have been trained in CPR but lack confidence in your ability to provide rescue breaths with minimal interruption of chest compressions.

You can watch a hands-only CPR training video from the American Heart Association.

Hands-only CPR does not apply to un-witnessed cardiac arrest, cardiac arrest in children or cardiac arrest presumed to be of non-cardiac origin.

What to Do for:

Adults

  1. Check responsiveness and have someone call TCCD Police Dispatch at 817-515-8911, and get an AED. If you are alone, call and then get an AED yourself.
  2. Place the heel of one hand on the middle of the chest in line with the nipples.
  3. Place other hand over the first and interlock fingers, keeping them off the chest wall.
  4. Bring your shoulders directly over the victim's chest as you compress downward (depth of about 1.5-2 inches), keep your arms straight.
  5. Push hard, push fast at a rate of 100 compressions per minute, allowing the chest to recoil after each compression.
  6. Minimize interruptions and watch for chest rise.
  7. Continue chest compressions until an AED arrives, the victim begins to move, or EMS personnel take over.

Children

Chest compressions for children 1-8 years of age are the same as for adults, except the following:

  • Compress downward to a depth of 1/3 to ½ the depth of the chest.
  • If you are alone, you must complete 5 cycles of 30 compressions, 2 breaths before calling TCCD Police Dispatch at 817-515-8911 and getting an AED. Use pediatric electrodes.

Infants

  1. Check the infant's response by tapping his/her foot.
  2. Check the infant's breathing by placing your cheek next to the mouth to feel for breath.
  3. Send someone to call TCCD Police Dispatch at 817-515-8911.
  4. If alone, give 5 sets of 30 compressions and 2 breaths before calling 817-515-8911.
  5. Give compressions by using 2 fingers on the chest between the nipples, and pressing ½ to 1 inch.
  6. Give breaths by placing your mouth of the infant's nose and mouth. Give just enough air to cause the chest to rise.

Updated January 20, 2023