When a person suffers sudden cardiac arrest, bystander CPR can double or triple their chance of survival. However, CPR is only effective when done correctly. Many well-intentioned rescuers make common mistakes that reduce the effectiveness of their efforts—or worse, prevent the victim from receiving the help they need.
At One Love CPR, we emphasize proper technique in our CPR and BLS training courses so that you’re fully prepared to act confidently in an emergency. In this article, we’ll cover the most common CPR mistakes and how you can avoid them.
The Most Common CPR Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
1. Delaying CPR – Every Second Counts
Mistake: Hesitating to begin CPR because of fear, doubt, or waiting for medical professionals.
Why It’s Dangerous: Brain damage begins within 4-6 minutes without oxygen. Delaying CPR decreases survival rates drastically.
How to Avoid This Mistake:
- If the victim is unresponsive and not breathing normally, start chest compressions immediately.
- Call 911 or have someone else call while you begin CPR.
- Remember: doing something is better than doing nothing!
2. Incorrect Hand Placement
Mistake: Placing hands too high or too low on the chest during compressions.
Why It’s Dangerous: Poor hand placement leads to ineffective compressions, meaning the heart isn’t pumping blood efficiently.
How to Avoid This Mistake:
- Place the heel of one hand in the center of the chest, between the nipples.
- Keep your other hand on top, fingers interlocked, and push straight down.
3. Not Pushing Hard or Fast Enough
Mistake: Using shallow compressions or not keeping the correct rhythm.
Why It’s Dangerous: Compressions that are too weak don’t circulate blood effectively, and going too slow reduces oxygen flow to the brain.
How to Avoid This Mistake:
- Compress the chest at least 2 inches deep for adults.
- Maintain a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute (think of the beat to the song Stayin’ Alive ).
- Allow the chest to fully recoil between compressions to maximize blood flow.
4. Not Giving Rescue Breaths Properly
Mistake: Giving breaths too forcefully or not opening the airway correctly.
Why It’s Dangerous: Over-inflating the lungs can cause air to enter the stomach (gastric inflation), leading to vomiting. Poor airway positioning reduces oxygen delivery.
How to Avoid This Mistake:
- Tilt the head back and lift the chin to open the airway.
- Give two gentle breaths, watching for chest rise.
- Avoid blowing too hard—each breath should last about one second.
5. Stopping Compressions for Too Long
Mistake: Taking too many pauses or stopping completely when tired.
Why It’s Dangerous: Blood flow stops when compressions stop, reducing the victim’s chance of survival.
How to Avoid This Mistake:
- Minimize pauses—only stop when absolutely necessary (for breaths, AED use, or switching rescuers).
- If there are multiple rescuers, switch every two minutes to avoid fatigue.
6. Misusing an AED (Automated External Defibrillator)
Mistake: Not turning on the AED immediately or ignoring voice prompts.
Why It’s Dangerous: Delayed AED use significantly reduces survival chances.
How to Avoid This Mistake:
- Turn the AED on immediately and follow the voice instructions.
- Ensure chest is dry and free of hair for electrode pad placement.
- Stand clear when delivering the shock!
Master CPR with Hands-On Training at One Love CPR
Understanding CPR mistakes is the first step—practicing correct techniques is the next. At One Love CPR, we offer:
- Hands-on, real-world training with professional instructors
- American Heart Association-certified CPR and BLS courses
- Flexible scheduling to fit your busy life
- Same-day certification for work or personal training
📅 Flexible scheduling to fit your busy lifestyle
📞 Have questions? Call us —we’re here to help!
🌐 Register online: www.onelovecpr.com
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