CPR should only be stopped when specific conditions are met, as continuing it inappropriately can cause harm or interfere with advanced medical care.
Here's a breakdown of when it is appropriate to stop CPR:
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The casualty shows signs of life: This includes any indication of spontaneous breathing, movement, coughing, or opening their eyes. If the person starts to breathe normally on their own, CPR is no longer needed.
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A qualified healthcare professional takes over: If paramedics, doctors, or other trained medical personnel arrive on the scene, they will assess the situation and take over providing care, including CPR if necessary. You should provide them with any relevant information about what happened and the care you've provided.
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You are physically unable to continue: CPR is physically demanding. If you become too exhausted to continue providing effective chest compressions and rescue breaths, you should stop. If possible, try to find someone else who can take over. Chest compressions should be at a rate of 100-120 per minute and at a depth of at least 2 inches.
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A Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) order is presented: If a valid DNR order is available and confirms the person's wishes to not receive CPR, you must respect this decision.
It is crucial to continue CPR until one of these conditions is met. Prematurely stopping CPR can significantly reduce the person's chances of survival. If you are unsure, continue CPR until help arrives.
