10 shocking CPR myths you need to know - don't risk someone's life!

Tom Claudio
Apr 19, 2023
3 min read

Updated: May 31, 2023

Myths about CPR that You Should Be Aware Of

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is a life-saving technique that can significantly increase the chances of survival for someone experiencing a cardiac arrest or respiratory failure. However, there are several myths surrounding CPR that can be dangerous and even deadly. Here are 10 shocking CPR myths you need to know to avoid risking someone's life.

Myth #1: CPR always works CPR is not a guarantee of survival. In fact, the success rate of CPR varies depending on several factors, including the age and overall health of the person receiving CPR, how quickly CPR is administered, and the underlying cause of cardiac arrest or respiratory failure.

Myth #2: CPR can restart a stopped heart CPR does not restart a stopped heart. It helps maintain blood flow to vital organs until an automated external defibrillator (AED) or emergency medical services arrive to restart the heart.

Myth #3: CPR can cause more harm than good CPR does not cause harm if performed correctly. It is essential to provide prompt and effective CPR to increase the chances of survival for the person in distress.

Myth #4: Only medical professionals can perform CPR Anyone can perform CPR, and it is crucial to start CPR immediately in case of an emergency. CPR training is widely available and can equip anyone with the skills necessary to perform CPR correctly.

Myth #5: CPR can be done without mouth-to-mouth resuscitation Mouth-to-mouth resuscitation, also known as rescue breathing, is an essential part of CPR. However, in some circumstances, hands-only CPR can be performed, such as when someone is unwilling or unable to perform mouth-to-mouth resuscitation.

Myth #6: CPR can be performed on someone who is conscious CPR is only performed on someone who is unconscious and not breathing. It is essential to check for responsiveness and breathing before starting CPR.

Myth #7: CPR can be performed on someone who has a pulse CPR is only performed on someone who is not breathing and does not have a pulse. It is crucial to check for breathing and pulse before starting CPR.

Myth #8: CPR can be performed on someone who is wet It is essential to dry the person before starting CPR to prevent slipping or the AED from malfunctioning. If the person is wet, move them to a dry location and dry them before starting CPR.

Myth #9: CPR can be performed on someone who is too old CPR is not limited by age. It can be performed on anyone, regardless of age, if they are not breathing and do not have a pulse.

Myth #10: CPR is only effective in a hospital setting CPR can be effective in any setting. Prompt and effective CPR can significantly increase the chances of survival for someone experiencing a cardiac arrest or respiratory failure.

Knowing the facts about CPR is critical in an emergency situation. CPR can be the difference between life and death, and it is essential to dispel these 10 myths to ensure that you can provide effective CPR and increase the chances of survival for the person in distress. Remember, every minute counts when it comes to CPR, so do not hesitate to start CPR immediately and call for emergency medical services.

Learn, Enjoy, and Save Life. Healthforce Training Center offers CPR Training and certifications such as Basic Life Support (BLS), Advance Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS), Pediatric Advance Life Support (PALS), CPR AED, Pediatric First Aid CPR AED, and First Aid CPR AED.