Studies show that hands only CPR can be as effective as conventional CPR, which includes rescue breaths.
The American Heart Association recommends bystanders perform hands only CPR when an adult
collapses outside of a hospital setting.
01. Check for hazards around the patient, like exposed electrical wires, which can potentially place your life
at risk. Only remove the hazard, if it is safe to do so.
02. Check if the person is awake by tapping them on the shoulder and shouting loudly, "Hello, hello, are
you okay?".
03. Check to see if the person is breathing normally. If they are, place them in the recovery position by turning
them onto their side.
04. If the person is unresponsive and not breathing normally, seek help immediately by calling Netcare 911 on
082 911 or tapping the Netcare 911 button on the Netcare app. You may also send someone else to call for
assistance while you begin CPR, starting with chest compressions.
05. Place the heel of your hand on the centre of their chest between the nipples. Push hard and fast when doing
compressions. Chest compressions will not harm the patient.
06. Hands only CPR is done without breaths. Continue to apply continuous chest compressions until
help arrives.
7 steps to
performing CPR
on an adult
Need emergency medical assistance?
Call Netcare 911 on 082 911 or download the Netcare app
