Check the victim for unresponsiveness. If there is no response, Call 911 and

 return to the victim. In most locations the emergency dispatcher can assist

 you with CPR instructions.

2. PUMP

 If the victim is still not breathing normally, coughing, or

 moving, begin chest compressions. Push down on the

 center of the chest 1 1/2 to 2 inches and keep doing it.

 Pump at the rate of 100/minute, faster than once per

 second.

CONTINUE UNTIL HELP ARRIVES

Course Description:

• American Heart Association guidelines

  Q: Why is the American Heart Association changing its guidelines?

  A: Studies show that bystanders are reluctant to attempt conventional CPR, which involves chest compression and mouth-to-mouth resuscitation. New research shows that chest compression alone works just as well as traditional CPR. The thinking is, more people will try CPR if they don't need to include mouth-to-mouth breathing.

  Q: What is Hands Only CPR?

  A: Hands Only CPR can be defined as chest compressions done with out mouth to mouth resuscitation.

  Q: Does this apply to all cases?

  A: No. The new guidelines apply only to adult victims shortly after they collapse and have no pulse. They do not apply to children or drowning victims.

  Q: Why not drowning victims?

  A: Chest compression alone works only if there is oxygenated blood left in the body, but drowning victims have already consumed most of the oxygen in their bloodstreams. They need the air provided by mouth-to-mouth resuscitation.

  Q: Why not children?

  A: Cardiac arrest in children is rare. Most children whose hearts have stopped are suffering from respiratory arrest, from choking or conditions such as asthma. Like a drowning victim, they don't have oxygen in their bloodstreams.