There are two types of CPR.
Hands-Only CPR
Hands-only CPR is a simple technique that anyone can perform in an emergency and is as effective as traditional CPR, but does not require mouth-to-mouth contact. Both keep the patient's blood flowing until EMS providers arrive.
Hands-only CPR is not a certification program. Unlike traditional CPR, the hands-only technique consists of three simple steps:
- Call 911.
- Push hard and fast on the center of the chest.
- If possible, use a portable defibrillator (AED).
The American Heart Association's hands-only CPR video demonstrates the proper technique. The video is also available in Spanish. To learn more, call 410-887-1822 or email crr@baltimorecountymd.gov.
Traditional CPR
The American Heart Association offers certification programs in traditional CPR; find a class near you. Or, call one of the County's volunteer fire stations, which occasionally offer CPR training.
Traditional CPR involves:
- Clearing a choking person’s airway
- Recognizing and assisting someone who may be having a heart attack or stroke
- Assessing an unresponsive person
- Performing CPR on a victim suffering from “sudden cardiac death"