If you’ve ever found yourself wondering, “Do I still need to give rescue breaths?” or “Has the CPR ratio changed?”—you’re not alone. With regular updates to medical guidelines and a growing awareness of the importance of CPR, many people are searching for accurate, up-to-date information to make sure they’re ready to help in an emergency.
While the 2025 CPR guidelines haven’t introduced major changes for first aiders, recent updates—especially those from 2024—have fine-tuned aspects of advanced care. For everyday responders, however, the core principles remain solid.
This comprehensive guide outlines what every first aider needs to know about CPR in 2025, answers common questions, and offers expert insight to keep your life-saving skills sharp.
The foundational CPR method remains 30 chest compressions followed by 2 rescue breaths—a ratio that applies to adults, children, infants, and older adults alike.
Why this matters:
Chest compressions keep blood circulating, but rescue breaths deliver oxygen, which is crucial for brain and organ survival during cardiac arrest.
“Even in hands-only scenarios, compressions are powerful. But when you combine them with rescue breaths, you’re giving someone their best shot at recovery.”
— Emma Reid, CPR Instructor & First Aid Trainer with 12+ years of experience
If you’re untrained or unwilling to give rescue breaths (due to infection risk or personal comfort), hands-only CPR is still highly effective. Studies have shown it can double or triple survival rates if started immediately.
Use a rhythm of 100–120 beats per minute (think: “Stayin’ Alive” by the Bee Gees)
High-quality compressions can make or break CPR effectiveness. Here’s how to do it right:
Age Group | Compression Depth | Rate |
Adults | At least 5 cm (2 inches) | 100–120 bpm |
Children | About 1/3 of chest depth | 100–120 bpm |
Infants | About 1/3 of chest depth | 100–120 bpm |
Poor compression depth or pace significantly reduces survival chances. Focus, stay consistent, and switch with another responder every 2 minutes if possible.
Yes—but mostly for advanced care professionals, not general first aiders. These changes come from the 2024 ANZCOR Guidelines and include:
These changes do not impact how everyday first aiders should perform CPR. If you’re not in a clinical setting, stick to the tried-and-true 30:2 method.
CPR is an evolving science, and guidelines are updated to reflect the latest research, evidence, and real-world outcomes. In Australia and New Zealand, several organizations contribute to these updates:
Even if you were certified years ago, it’s essential to refresh your knowledge and skills regularly. Techniques don’t change overnight, but subtle shifts in emphasis or technique can improve outcomes significantly.
While the heart of CPR hasn’t changed, your ability to respond quickly and effectively depends on keeping your knowledge up to date. Rescue breaths, chest compressions, and the confidence to act—these simple tools can mean the difference between life and death.
“The best CPR is the one that gets done right away. Don’t wait, don’t overthink—start compressions and call for help. You might save a life.”
— Emma Reid
The American Heart Association CPR Test is a sample test to improve your knowledge and better prepare for a your CPR test. This test consists of 10 questions and takes less than 5 mins to complete. It’s free to take as many times as you like. We require your name and email address before you can view results. [pcld_registration um_form_id=3776 quiz_slug=”/start-aha-cpr-quiz/” button=”Start The Quiz”] (Note: we are not affiliated with AHA and this is not an official test) More information about how to prepare for your CPR test
Vlad Magdalin