Hands-only CPR quick reference

Complete this worksheet using the actual workplace and current plan. A blank form or course score is not evidence that the action occurred. Record actual dates and observations. Print or save a completed copy before closing; entries are not automatically stored. Keep private health details out of this worksheet.

For witnessed sudden teen/adult collapse; not infant CPR instructions.

Hands-only CPR for sudden collapse

Hands-only CPR is intended for a bystander who sees a teen or adult suddenly collapse. At a safe scene, check response and normal breathing. An unresponsive person who is not breathing normally or is only gasping needs immediate action. Gasping is not normal breathing. A lay rescuer should not delay to search for a pulse.

Call 911 or direct a specific person to call and bring an AED. Use speakerphone if you are alone with a phone. Start compressions promptly and follow the dispatcher. Do not wait for an AED or a course completion record.

With the person on their back on a firm, flat surface when feasible without delaying care, kneel beside the chest. Place one hand’s heel at the center of the chest, the other hand on top. Keep arms straight and shoulders over the hands.

Compress at 100–120 per minute. For an average adult, press at least 2 inches (5 cm), avoiding depths greater than 2.4 inches (6 cm). Let the chest fully recoil; do not lean between pushes. Keep pauses as short as possible.

Continue until another responder takes over, clear signs of life such as normal breathing return, you cannot physically continue, or the scene becomes unsafe. Pause when the AED directs analysis or shock, then resume as prompted. If normal breathing returns, stop compressions, monitor and follow dispatch. A manikin practice session is needed to learn and check the physical technique.

Use an AED and know CPR limits

Turn on the AED as soon as it is available and follow its spoken or visual prompts. Expose the chest, dry it if needed, and attach pads to bare skin as their diagrams show. Use the device’s instructions and dispatcher help.

Keep everyone clear during rhythm analysis and shock. Deliver a shock only when directed by the device. Resume CPR immediately after a shock or a no-shock instruction, following its prompts. No shock advised does not mean the person has recovered.

Hands-only CPR is not a substitute for learning CPR with breaths. Breaths are especially important for infants and children and for arrests caused by breathing problems, including drowning. Adult depth instructions in the previous lesson are not infant instructions.

If trained and able, use the appropriate CPR technique with breaths. If you cannot give breaths, call emergency services and provide the help you can under dispatcher guidance; do not stand by doing nothing. Get a full skills course for your responsibilities.

Know where the workplace AED is located and who maintains it. Do not wait for a designated operator to arrive before following an available AED’s instructions. Training and maintenance support readiness; this lesson does not establish an AED program or device certification.

Practice with a qualified provider and suitable manikin. This reference does not establish first-aid/CPR certification.

Sources

• OSHA general industry medical services and first aid
• OSHA nonmandatory first-aid supplies guidance
• OSHA construction medical services and first aid
• OSHA physical skills and online training interpretation
• AHA 2025 adult basic life support
• AHA hands-only and conventional CPR
• AHA CPR comparison resource
• Red Cross hands-only CPR
• Red Cross adult cardiac arrest
• Red Cross AED steps
• Red Cross life-threatening bleeding
• Red Cross household kit examples (not workplace quantities)
• OSHA first-aid program guide (2006 advisory planning guidance)

Federal sources reviewed October 22, 2026. Confirm the actual work, jurisdiction and applicable additional requirements. OSHA guidance supports planning; it is distinguished from mandatory standard text.