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Red Cross Endorses Compression-Only CPR for Lay Responders The importance of being trained in First Aid, Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and the use of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) cannot be underestimated. However, the American Red Cross encourages Compression-Only CPR for those who are unwilling, unable, untrained or unsure how to perform full CPR (cycles of chest compressions and rescue breaths). Compression-Only CPR involves giving continuous chest compressions (at the rate of 100 compressions per minute) without rescue breaths. “In the event that a bystander would witness an adult suddenly collapse and show no signs of normal life, the first step should always be to call 911 immediately,” said Laura Jackson, CPR and First Aid Program Manager for the American Red Cross of Greater Kansas City. “If the bystander is untrained or unwilling to give full CPR, the Red Cross recommends the use of the continuous chest compressions technique.” The Red Cross offers a teaching tool to help the public be Red Cross Ready to perform Compression-Only CPR. The First Aid and CPR for Everyone Kit can be used at home, in the office, in classrooms or anywhere it is convenient to practice this lifesaving skill. To order your own kit, Click here It is important to remember that Compression-Only CPR should not be used on infants and children, on an adult whose sudden collapse is not witnessed or when a respiratory emergency may have caused the cardiac arrest. Full CPR is still important to learn because it is critical to know what to do during various emergencies. Red Cross first aid, CPR and AED training can give people the skills and the confidence to act quickly and save a life. Back to News American Red Cross Greater Kansas City Chapter 211 W. Armour Blvd. Kansas City, MO 64111 USA         Phone 816-931-8400 Fax 816-531-7306 © 2003-2008 The American Red Cross. All Rights Reserved. Terms of Use | Privacy Policy