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Hands-Only CPR vs Full CPR: What’s the Difference?

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When someone’s heart suddenly stops, immediate CPR can double or triple survival chances — but many people hesitate because they’re unsure how to help. The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends two main approaches: Hands-Only CPR and Conventional CPR (compressions + breaths). Understanding which one to use — and how to do it correctly — could save a life.


Hands-Only CPR (AHA Recommended for Most Teens & Adults)

What it is: Hands-Only CPR is just chest compressions — no rescue breaths.

When to use it:

  • For teens or adults who collapse suddenly and are unresponsive and not breathing normally.

  • If you are not trained or uncomfortable giving rescue breaths.

How to do it (per AHA):

  1. Call 911 (or have someone else do it).

  2. Push hard and fast in the center of the chest at a rate of 100–120 compressions per minute (to the beat of “Stayin’ Alive”).

  3. Push at least 2 inches deep, allowing full chest recoil after each push.

  4. Continue until help arrives or an AED is ready.

Why it works:Even without breaths, compressions circulate some oxygen that’s still in the blood — buying time until professional care arrives.


Conventional CPR (Compressions + Rescue Breaths)

What it is: Standard CPR uses 30 compressions followed by 2 rescue breaths.

When to use it:

  • Infants and children (anyone under puberty).

  • Adults if collapse may be from breathing trouble (drowning, overdose, choking).

  • If you are trained and confident giving rescue breaths.

How to do it (per AHA):

  1. Call 911 and check for normal breathing.

  2. Give 30 compressions at 100–120 per minute, at least 2 inches deep for adults (about 2 inches for children, 1.5 inches for infants).

  3. Open the airway and give 2 gentle breaths, each about 1 second, watching for chest rise.

  4. Repeat cycles of 30:2.

Why it matters: Adding breaths is critical when low oxygen is the cause of arrest (common in children and drowning).


Key Differences (AHA Snapshot)


Hands-Only CPR

Conventional CPR

Best for

Teens & adults, sudden collapse

Infants/children, drowning, overdose, respiratory arrest

What to do

Compressions only 100–120/min

30 compressions + 2 breaths

Training

Minimal

Recommended

Goal

Circulate blood

Circulate blood & add oxygen

AED Integration

If an AED (Automated External Defibrillator) is available:

  • Turn it on immediately — it gives voice prompts.

  • Expose the chest, attach pads as shown on the diagrams.

  • Resume CPR right after the AED delivers a shock or says to continue compressions.


Why You Should Get Certified

  • You’ll be comfortable with both techniques.

  • Certification includes hands-on practice and the latest science.

  • AHA certifications last 2 years and can be renewed quickly.


The AHA’s bottom line is simple: Push hard, push fast, and act now. If you’re unsure, do Hands-Only CPR — it’s far better than doing nothing. To be ready for every emergency, consider getting certified in full CPR with breaths and AED use.



Tomorrow we’re back to forklift safety with Daily Forklift Inspection Checklist That Could Save Lives.

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