When to stop CPR

You should continue performing cycles of CPR at 30 compressions to two rescue breaths. If performing compression-only CPR, you should continue compressions with no interruptions other than to change a tired rescuer. If you are using an AED, the device will ask you to stop to allow it to reassess after 2 minutes.

Only stop CPR if:

  1. The casualty shows signs of life, e.g. moving, moaning, coughing or opening the eyes AND starts to breathe normally.
  2. Someone more qualified arrives and takes over.
  3. You are exhausted and cannot carry on.