A cardiac arrest should never be treated as a delay. The period of intervention is crucial for survival. Any delay would just reduce the life expectancy of the victim. Without the intervention of a bystander, the chances of a person surviving would decrease by 50 percent, with bystander intervention raising it by more than 50 percent. Many are hesitant, unsure how to help, or uncomfortable with mouth-to-mouth resuscitation. That is where the Hands-Only CPR technique is handy-an effective method that even untrained individuals will find easy to perform.
This organization believes that saving lives must begin by building community confidence. The people are so empowered through practical and easily accessible education in CPR to act swiftly and efficiently whenever an emergency arises.
What Is Hands-Only CPR?
Hand-Only CPR means an isolated chest compression, without the accompanying rescue breaths. The American Heart Association recommends this technique in public situations in which a teenager or adult has collapsed and is unresponsive.
It is a more straightforward CPR technique useful for a person with little or no medical knowledge. Several scientific studies have proven that hands-only CPR is equally efficient to traditional CPR for first few minutes in sudden cardiac arrest especially outside the hospital setting.
When to Use Hands-Only CPR
Hands-only CPR is ideal in situations where:
- The rescuer has not received formal CPR certification
- The victim is a teenager or adult who has suddenly collapsed
- There is no breathing or only gasping
- The rescuer is unwilling or unable to perform mouth-to-mouth resuscitation
It’s not generally recommended for infants, children, or drowning victims—these cases often require traditional CPR with rescue breaths.
How to Perform Hands-Only CPR
Performing hands-only CPR involves two simple steps:
- Call 911 – Immediately alert emergency services or ask someone nearby to do so.
- Push hard and fast – Begin chest compressions in the center of the chest at a rate of 100–120 compressions per minute (similar to the beat of “Staying’ Alive” by the Bee Gees). Aim for a depth of about 2 inches and allow the chest to recoil fully between compressions.
That’s it. No breaths. No fancy equipment. Just firm, rhythmic compressions that keep blood flowing to the brain and other vital organs.
Why It Works
Hands-only CPR keeps oxygenated blood moving during the critical moments before emergency responders arrive. Even if you’re unsure about any technique of CPR. Hands-only CPR removes barriers and fear for many people, encouraging more bystanders to act.
If you’re already enrolled in a CPR course, chances are you’ll practice both traditional and hands-only techniques. That’s why it’s beneficial to explore full CPR and first aid certification courses with expert instructors who demonstrate proper form and timing.
Benefits of Learning Hands-Only CPR
- Faster response in public emergencies
- Confidence for untrained bystanders
- Increased survival rates for cardiac arrest victims
- Complements other training such as Basic life support courses
- Can be reinforced through online CPR certification options
Why Choose Heart Starters Inc.
At Heart Starters Inc., we’re committed to transforming hesitation into action. Whether you’re new to CPR or refreshing your knowledge, we offer flexible, practical CPR certification course in London. Our experienced instructors use real-life scenarios and up-to-date guidelines to prepare you for moments that matter most.
We also specialize in emergency CPR training for workplaces, schools, and healthcare professionals. Our programs in Ontario—including Hamilton, Mississauga, and surrounding cities—are designed with community safety in mind.
Take the First Step Toward Confidence
You need not be a healthcare provider to save a life. Anyone has the capacity to transform into a first responder through hands-only CPR. Enroll in a certified course with Heart Starters Inc. and build confidence to render aid when every beat of time matters. Take the initiative to register today with Heart Starters Inc. for expert-led CPR training and become another lifeline for someone out there.