How to Perform CPR: A Step-by-Step Guide for UK Citizens

Written By Jack Carr

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is a life-saving technique that can mean the difference between life and death in cases of cardiac arrest. Knowing how to perform CPR is a crucial skill that everyone should learn. This guide provides a clear, step-by-step approach to performing CPR, tailored for UK citizens, and highlights the importance of immediate action in emergencies.

The Importance of CPR

Cardiac arrest is a leading cause of death in the UK, with over 30,000 out-of-hospital cardiac arrests occurring each year. The survival rate for out-of-hospital cardiac arrests in the UK is approximately 10%, but early CPR can double or even triple the chances of survival. Despite its importance, a significant number of bystanders do not intervene, often due to a lack of confidence or knowledge.

  • Key Statistic: According to the British Heart Foundation, only 40% of people who witness a cardiac arrest outside of a hospital attempt CPR, which highlights the urgent need for widespread CPR training and awareness.

What is CPR?

CPR is a life-saving procedure that combines chest compressions with rescue breaths (in some cases) to maintain circulation and oxygenation in a person who has suffered cardiac arrest. The goal is to keep blood flowing to the brain and other vital organs until professional medical help arrives.

When to Perform CPR

CPR should be performed when a person is unresponsive and not breathing normally (or not breathing at all). These are signs of cardiac arrest, and immediate action is critical.

  • Check for Responsiveness: Gently shake the person and shout their name. If there is no response, proceed to check their breathing.

  • Check for Breathing: Tilt the person’s head back slightly and listen for breathing. If the person is not breathing or is only gasping, start CPR immediately.

Important: If you are unsure whether the person is breathing normally, it is safer to start CPR than to do nothing.

Step-by-Step Guide to Performing CPR

Here’s how to perform CPR, step by step:

1. Call for Help

Before starting CPR, ensure that emergency services are on their way.

  • Call 999: If you’re with someone else, have them call 999 while you begin CPR. If you’re alone, call 999 first, put your phone on speaker mode, and then start CPR.

Tip: If you’re unsure about the process, the emergency operator can guide you through the steps of CPR.

2. Position the Person

Lay the person flat on their back on a firm surface.

  • Kneel beside their chest: This position allows you to perform chest compressions effectively.

Tip: Ensure the area is safe for you and the person you are helping.

3. Begin Chest Compressions

Chest compressions are the most important part of CPR, as they help maintain blood flow to vital organs.

  • Hand Placement: Place the heel of one hand in the center of the person’s chest, on the lower half of their breastbone (sternum). Place your other hand on top of the first hand and interlock your fingers.

  • Body Position: Position your shoulders directly over your hands and keep your arms straight. This allows you to use your upper body strength to perform compressions.

  • Compressions: Push hard and fast, compressing the chest at least 5-6 cm (2-2.5 inches) deep at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute. Allow the chest to fully recoil between compressions.

Tip: The rhythm of the song "Stayin' Alive" by the Bee Gees matches the ideal compression rate. Mentally humming this tune can help you maintain the correct pace.

4. Deliver Rescue Breaths (If Trained)

If you are trained in CPR and confident in your ability, you can combine chest compressions with rescue breaths.

  • Open the Airway: After 30 compressions, open the person’s airway by tilting their head back and lifting their chin.

  • Pinch the Nose and Give Breaths: Pinch the person’s nose shut, take a normal breath, and cover their mouth with yours to create a seal. Blow into their mouth for about one second, watching for the chest to rise. Give two breaths.

  • Resume Compressions: After giving two breaths, immediately resume chest compressions.

Tip: If you are not trained or are uncomfortable with rescue breaths, continue with hands-only CPR (chest compressions only).

5. Use an AED (Automated External Defibrillator) If Available

If an AED is available, use it as soon as possible. AEDs are designed to be used by anyone, even without training.

  • Turn on the AED: Follow the voice prompts provided by the device.

  • Attach the Pads: Place the adhesive pads on the person’s bare chest as indicated by the diagrams on the pads.

  • Deliver a Shock: If the AED advises a shock, ensure no one is touching the person, and press the shock button. After the shock is delivered, immediately resume CPR starting with chest compressions.

Tip: Continue following the AED prompts and perform CPR until emergency services arrive or the person shows signs of life.

Continue Until Help Arrives

Continue performing CPR until one of the following occurs:

  • The person starts breathing normally or shows signs of life (such as coughing or movement).

  • A trained responder or emergency medical personnel take over.

  • You become physically exhausted and unable to continue.

What to Do After Performing CPR

If the person regains consciousness or starts breathing, place them in the recovery position (lying on their side) to keep their airway clear. Stay with them until emergency services arrive.

  • Provide Reassurance: Keep the person calm and reassured as they wait for help. Monitor their breathing and condition.

Tip: Even if the person appears to recover, it’s important that they receive medical evaluation, as they may have underlying conditions that need attention.

Why CPR Training is Essential

While this guide provides a basic overview of how to perform CPR, formal training is strongly recommended. CPR courses offer hands-on practice and a deeper understanding of the technique, which can make you more confident and effective in an emergency.

1. Access to CPR Training in the UK

Organizations such as the British Red Cross, St John Ambulance, and the British Heart Foundation offer CPR courses across the UK. These courses are accessible and often available at low cost or even for free in some cases.

  • Impact: By taking a CPR course, you increase your ability to save a life and contribute to a community that is better prepared for emergencies.

2. Regular Refresher Courses

CPR guidelines can change over time, and skills can fade if not used. Regular refresher courses are recommended to keep your knowledge and skills up to date.

Tip: Consider scheduling a refresher course every two years to stay current with the latest CPR techniques.

Conclusion

CPR is a vital life-saving skill that everyone should know. By understanding when and how to perform CPR, you can make a significant difference in an emergency, potentially saving someone’s life. While this guide provides a basic overview, taking a certified CPR course will give you the confidence and skills needed to act effectively when it matters most.

If you haven’t already, consider enrolling in a CPR course today. The knowledge you gain could one day help you save a life—whether it’s a loved one, a friend, or even a stranger.

This blog post provides a comprehensive step-by-step guide on how to perform CPR, including key statistics and the importance of CPR training for UK citizens.

Jack Carr
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