During a cardiac emergency, your CPR skills may automatically kick in. This is a good thing. In fact, research shows that immediately performing CPR can double or even triple the chances that a victim survives cardiac arrest outside of a hospital.
However, as much as your instincts may tell you to continue CPR for as long as possible, at some point, you may face the question: When do you stop CPR?
When Do You Stop CPR? The Official AHA Guidelines
It can be emotionally fraught to determine when you should stop performing CPR. Fortunately, the American Heart Association (AHA) has established clear guidelines on when it’s acceptable to stop CPR.
Part of your CPR training should include the three universal criteria for stopping CPR.
1. Return of Spontaneous Circulation (ROSC)
In a best-case scenario, the victim will begin showing signs of life. That could include breathing on their own, regaining a pulse, opening their eyes, and starting to move. If this happens, it’s time for you to stop CPR. Keep a close watch on the person. If they go into cardiac arrest again, you’ll need to restart CPR.
2. Handover to Another Person
Your number one priority when someone experiences cardiac arrest is to call 911 so that professional help can be dispatched. When EMTs or other qualified responders arrive, transfer CPR care to them. The AHA also permits handing off to any bystander with equal or higher medical training.
3. Rescuer Exhaustion
Performing CPR is physically taxing, and fatigue can make compressions less effective. The AHA states that if you become too tired to maintain proper pace or depth, it is acceptable to pause. If another trained responder is available, switch roles. If not, resume CPR as soon as you are able. Ensure you have utilized all additional resources before doing so.
Obvious Signs of Irreversible Death
Every state and circumstance is different. Typically a physician can pronounce or call off CPR. In certain states and situations, EMT’s/Paramedics, Nurses, NP’s are able to pronounce time of death.
Two signs of irreversible death are rigor mortis, when the body is stiff, and dependent lividity, when blood pools in the lower parts of the body, causing a purplish discoloration.
A Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) Order
Lastly, if you receive confirmation that the victim has a valid Do Not Resuscitate order, it means they do not wish to receive CPR or other life-sustaining treatments. If you work in a hospital setting or a care facility, the victim may have a Do Not Resuscitate order on file.
It’s essential to verify that the DNR is valid and legal before stopping CPR. When in doubt, continue CPR until you receive clarification on the situation.
Knowing When to Stop CPR Makes a Difference
When it comes to CPR, the emphasis is often on when and how to perform it, but it’s just as important to know when you should stop performing CPR. Of course, providing CPR correctly requires proper certification.
CPR Cart offers fast, convenient AHA-approved certifications in Basic Life Support (BLS), Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS), and Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS). Study the course material online at your own pace and then showcase your skills with a 30-minute in-person session at one of our automated manikin stations nationwide.
Book your CPR training session with CPR Cart today.