CPR should not be performed on someone who is conscious, responsive or breathing normally.
If a person is unresponsive but breathing normally, place them in the recovery position, call 000 and continue checking their breathing. If they are unresponsive and not breathing normally, begin CPR immediately.
The Australian and New Zealand Committee on Resuscitation (ANZCOR) states that CPR should be started when a person is unresponsive and not breathing normally. Occasional gasps should not be mistaken for normal breathing.
Knowing the difference can help you provide the right care without delaying lifesaving action.
Do not perform CPR if the person is responsive
CPR is not required if the person is awake, responding to you and breathing normally.
Before starting CPR, check whether the person responds to your voice or touch. You can use COWS to guide your check:
- Can you hear me?
- Open your eyes
- What is your name?
- Squeeze my hands
Don’t perform CPR if the person is breathing normally
An unconscious person does not automatically need CPR.
If they are unresponsive but breathing normally, place them in the recovery position. This helps keep their airway open and allows fluid to drain from their mouth.
How do you check for normal breathing?
Open the person’s airway and look, listen and feel for breathing for up to 10 seconds.
Look for movement in the lower chest or upper abdomen. Listen for air leaving the nose or mouth. Feel for air against your cheek.
Don't rely on chest movement alone. Occasional gasps, noisy breaths or irregular breathing may occur during cardiac arrest and are not considered normal breathing.
Don't put yourself in danger to perform CPR
Before approaching, check that the area is safe for you, the person and anyone nearby.
Hazards may include:
- Traffic
- Fire or smoke
- Electricity
- Hazardous substances
- Unstable structures
- Deep, moving or unsafe water
Don't enter an unsafe area. Call 000, inform bystanders to stay clear and wait for trained emergency services.
What if you are unsure whether CPR is needed?
If a person is unresponsive and you cannot confirm that they are breathing normally, call 000 and begin CPR.
Do not delay because you are worried about causing an injury. ANZCOR recommends starting CPR immediately for a presumed cardiac arrest as the potential survival benefit outweighs the relatively low risk of injury if the person is not in cardiac arrest.
Early CPR can double or triple a person's chance of survival from a sudden cardiac arrest.
When should you stop CPR?
Once CPR has begun, continue until:
- The person responds or begins breathing normally.
- A healthcare professional arrives and takes over.
- A healthcare professional directs you to stop.
- You are physically unable to continue.
If the person begins breathing normally, stop chest compressions, place them in the recovery position and continue monitoring them until help arrives.
Avoid stopping CPR to check for signs of life. Interruptions to chest compressions should be kept to a minimum.
Frequently asked questions
Should you perform CPR on someone who is breathing?
No. Do not perform CPR if the person is conscious and breathing normally. If they are unconscious but breathing, place them in the recovery position, call 000 and monitor their breathing.
Begin CPR if their breathing stops or becomes abnormal.
Should you perform CPR if someone has a pulse?
Members of the public are not expected to check for a pulse. It can be difficult to assess accurately and may delay treatment.
Base your decision on responsiveness and normal breathing. If the person is unresponsive and not breathing normally, begin CPR and follow the Triple Zero call taker’s instructions.
Should you perform CPR if someone is gasping?
Yes. Occasional or irregular gasping is not normal breathing.
If the person is unresponsive and gasping, call 000 and begin CPR.
Should you stop CPR when an AED arrives?
No. Continue CPR while the AED is being prepared, where possible. Pause only when the device instructs everyone to stand clear for analysis or a shock.
Resume CPR immediately when directed by the AED.
CPR training can help you act with confidence
A Royal Life Saving WA CPR course can help you recognise abnormal breathing, use the recovery position, perform effective chest compressions and respond safely until emergency services arrive.
Enrol in a CPR course with us today and be ready to act when someone needs help.
