When someone suddenly collapses and stops breathing, every second counts. Hands-only CPR is a simple, effective way for bystanders to help keep blood flowing until emergency help arrives — and it saves lives.
This guide walks you through what to do step by step, so you can feel confident to act if the unthinkable happens. And with Shocktober here, there’s never been a better time to learn.
Why Hands-Only CPR Matters
According to the Heart Foundation, more than 32,000 Australians experience an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest each year, yet survival rates remain low — around 10%. Early CPR can double or even triple a person’s chance of survival.
Hands-only CPR is recommended for untrained bystanders because it’s easy to remember, easy to do, and proven to be highly effective in the first few minutes after collapse.
Step-by-Step: How to Perform Hands-Only CPR
Follow these steps if you see someone suddenly collapse and they are not breathing normally:
- Ensure Safety
Make sure the area is safe for you and the patient.
- Check for Response
Gently tap the person’s shoulders and shout to see if they respond.
- Call for Help
If they are unresponsive and not breathing normally, call Triple Zero (000) immediately. Put your phone on speaker so you can follow instructions while you start CPR.
- Begin Chest Compressions
- Place the heel of one hand in the centre of the chest, place your other hand on top, and interlock your fingers.
- Keep your arms straight and shoulders directly above your hands.
- Push hard and fast — at least 5 cm deep, at a rate of 100–120 compressions per minute (around the beat of Stayin’ Alive).
- Allow the chest to fully recoil between compressions.
- Keep Going Until Help Arrives
Continue compressions until paramedics take over, the person starts breathing normally, or you are too exhausted to continue.
Using an AED (If Available)
If there’s an AED nearby, use it as soon as possible. AEDs are designed for anyone to use — simply follow the voice prompts. Early defibrillation is one of the most critical links in the Chain of Survival.
Overcoming Hesitation
Many people worry they’ll “do it wrong,” but doing something is always better than doing nothing. Studies show that bystanders who perform hands-only CPR, even imperfectly, greatly improve survival rates.
Take Action This Shocktober
Learning CPR is one of the most valuable skills you can have. During Shocktober, we’re encouraging everyone to refresh their CPR skills or learn them for the first time.
To take the next step:
- Book a CPR course with our expert trainers.
- Encourage your workplace or club to install an AED.
- Share this guide with friends and family — you might inspire someone to save a life.
Sources:
Heart Foundation. (n.d.). Cardiac arrest. Retrieved September 11, 2025, from https://www.heartfoundation.org.au/your-heart/cardiac-arrest
Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care. (2023). Using an AED (defibrillator). Retrieved September 11, 2025, from https://www.health.gov.au/topics/first-aid/using-an-aed
Australian and New Zealand Committee on Resuscitation (ANZCOR). (2021). Guideline 8: Cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Retrieved September 11, 2025, from https://resus.org.au/guidelines/