What are the 7 steps of CPR?

1. Check the scene and ensure safety: Before approaching the person in need, assess the environment for any potential dangers or hazards. Ensure that the scene is safe for both the rescuer and the victim.
2. Check for responsiveness: Gently tap the person and ask loudly, “Are you okay?” If there is no response, shout for help and immediately move on to the next step.
3. Call for emergency medical help: If you are alone, call your local emergency number (e.g., 911 in the United States) or instruct someone nearby to do so. Clearly communicate that you have identified a person in cardiac arrest and require immediate medical assistance.
4. Open the airway and check for breathing: Carefully tilt the person’s head back and lift the chin to open the airway. Look, listen, and feel for any signs of breathing. Watch for chest movement, listen for sounds of breathing, and feel for exhaled breath on your cheek for no more than 10 seconds.
5. Perform chest compressions: If the person is unresponsive and not breathing or only gasping, begin chest compressions. Place the heel of one hand on the center of the person’s chest, interlock your fingers, and position your shoulders directly above your hands. Push hard and fast at a rate of about 100-120 compressions per minute, allowing the chest to recoil completely between compressions. Aim for a compression depth of at least 2 inches (5 centimeters).
6. Give rescue breaths: After 30 compressions, open the person’s airway again and give two rescue breaths. Pinch the person’s nose shut, create a seal over their mouth with yours, and give two full breaths, each lasting about one second. Watch for the chest to rise with each breath.
7. Continue cycles of compressions and breaths: Continue with cycles of 30 chest compressions and two rescue breaths until professional help arrives, an automated external defibrillator (AED) becomes available, or the person shows signs of life.

Remember, CPR is a critical life-saving technique that should ideally be performed by individuals who have received proper training and certification. Prompt initiation of CPR increases the chances of survival for someone experiencing cardiac arrest until professional medical assistance arrives.