Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is a lifesaving technique used to improve the chances of survival if a person's heart stops beating. It includes chest compressions and mouth-to-mouth resuscitation. CPR can be performed on adults, children, and infants. The procedure is slightly different for each age group.

The American Red Cross offers an online course in CPR. The course takes a few hours to complete. CPR training is also available from the American Heart Association. The AHA offers both classroom-based and online courses.

CPR certification is not required by law, but some employers may prefer or require employees to be certified in CPR. Certification is usually valid for two years. Professionals such as doctors, nurses, paramedics, and firefighters typically require CPR certification.

The first step in performing CPR is to check the scene for any dangers. If the victim is in a dangerous place, do not enter the area until it is safe. Call 911, or ask someone else to call before beginning CPR.

Check the person for signs of life, such as breathing, coughing, or moving. If the person is not breathing but has a pulse, begin rescue breathing. If the person is not breathing and does not have a pulse, begin chest compressions and rescue breaths. Continue CPR until the person begins to breathe on their own or medical help arrives.

Oxygen is vital for the functioning of the brain. When someone experiences cardiac arrest, their blood flow stops, and oxygen can no longer reach the brain. CPR helps to keep oxygen flowing to the brain, which can help to prevent brain damage. Survival rates from cardiac arrests are low, but CPR can help to improve those rates.

Some risks are associated with CPR, although they rarely outweigh the consequences of not performing it. These risks include broken ribs, collapsed lungs, and spinal damage. CPR should only be performed by trained individuals who understand these risks.

There are several reasons to stop CPR. If you are performing CPR, you can stop if the victim starts to breathe on their own. You can also stop if medical help arrives and takes over.

There are several medical devices available that can be used as adjuncts to CPR. An automated external defibrillator (AED) is one example. AEDs are a type of CPR device used to restore the heart's normal rhythm. They are commonly used in hospitals to allow medical staff to provide high-quality CPR when indicated. CPR devices are also found in public places like malls and sports stadiums.