1
Recognize
Check safety. If the person is unresponsive and not breathing normally or is only gasping, assume cardiac arrest.
Start here
Learn the response, practice the rhythm, then take a hands-on class
Use these pages to understand current CPR concepts and prepare for formal training. In a real emergency, call 911 and follow dispatcher instructions.
100–120compressions per minute
30:2trained adult CPR ratio
ASAPapply and use an AED
<10 seckeep pauses brief
Choose your path
What kind of CPR training do you need?
Select the reason you need CPR
You will get a suggested AHA course type and the correct official link to continue.
The core response
Adult sudden collapse: four priorities
This simple sequence is designed for recognition and recall. A formal class teaches physical technique, special situations, team roles, and skills testing.
2
Call
Activate 911 and send someone for an AED. Put the phone on speaker when possible and follow dispatcher directions.
3
Compress
Push hard and fast in the center of the chest. Aim for 100–120 per minute and allow full recoil.
4
Defibrillate
Turn on the AED, attach pads, follow prompts, clear for analysis or shock, and immediately resume CPR.
Interactive pages
Build CPR knowledge one skill at a time
These activities teach concepts before testing recall. They cannot measure actual compression depth, recoil, hand placement, or ventilation quality.
Guideline Explorer
Compare adult, child, and infant CPR, review major 2025 changes, and complete a knowledge check.
Explore guidelinesSkills Practice Lab
Use a 100–120 BPM metronome, test your tapping rate, and practice the AED sequence.
Open practice labClass Finder Guide
Choose the course that fits your goal and jump to the official AHA class locator.
Find the right classOfficial resources
Go directly to the American Heart Association
2025 AHA CPR & ECC Guidelines
Current comprehensive guideline source
Open
Current comprehensive guideline source
Official AHA Algorithms
Adult, pediatric, neonatal, ACLS, and PALS algorithms
Open
Adult, pediatric, neonatal, ACLS, and PALS algorithms
AHA Course Catalog
Compare BLS, Heartsaver, ACLS, PALS, and community training
Open
Compare BLS, Heartsaver, ACLS, PALS, and community training
Find an AHA Class
Search authorized Training Centers and instructors
SearchSearch authorized Training Centers and instructors
Emergency reminder: This website is for learning and practice. In a suspected cardiac arrest, call 911, start CPR, use an AED as soon as possible, and follow dispatcher instructions.