Mouth to mouth CPR is a lifesaving technique where a rescuer provides breaths by sealing their mouth over the victim’s mouth and delivering a gentle breath. This method is typically part of cardiopulmonary resuscitation when someone is unresponsive, not breathing normally, or only gasping.
Learning mouth to mouth CPR increases the chance of survival for cardiac arrest and near drowning events by delivering oxygen to the lungs and vital organs. The following sections explain when and how to use this technique, supported by practical guidance and real-world context.
| Aspect | Description | Key Action | Related Guideline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Definition | Providing rescue breaths using the mouth to mouth technique during cardiac or respiratory arrest. | Seal the victim’s mouth and deliver a steady breath. | Basic Life Support Standards |
| Primary Purpose | Supply oxygen to the lungs and bloodstream when normal breathing has stopped. | Begin CPR with chest compressions and add breaths if trained and safe. | ERC and AHA Guidelines |
| When Used | For victims who are unresponsive, not breathing, or only gasping, with no advanced airway in place. | Check responsiveness and breathing before delivering breaths. | Out of Hospital Cardiac Arrest Protocols |
| Safety Note | Use a barrier device or face shield to reduce risk of disease transmission. | Ensure a good seal with minimal air leakage. | Infection Control Best Practices |
How to Perform Mouth to Mouth CPR Correctly
Check Responsiveness and Call for Help
Before starting mouth to mouth CPR, tap the person’s shoulder and shout to check for responsiveness. Immediately call emergency services or ask someone else to do so while you begin assessment.
Open the Airway and Assess Breathing
Use the head tilt chin lift method to open the airway, then look, listen, and feel for no breathing or only gasping. If normal breathing is absent, prepare to deliver rescue breaths.
Step by Step Mouth to Mouth Technique
Positioning and Initial Checks
Place the victim on a firm, flat surface in a supine position. Kneel beside them, tilt the head back gently, and lift the chin to keep the airway open.
Delivering Effective Rescue Breaths
Pinch the nose shut, create a complete seal over the victim’s mouth with your mouth, and blow steadily for about one second until the chest rises. Allow the chest to fall completely between breaths.
When Mouth to Mouth CPR Is Most Effective
Cardiac Arrest in Adults and Children
For witnessed cardiac arrest, starting CPR with chest compressions is recommended, but adding mouth to mouth breaths can improve oxygenation, especially if the arrest is due to drowning or asphyxia.
Near Drowning and Suffocation Cases
In cases such as near drowning or suffocation, mouth to mouth CPR is particularly important to provide oxygen that may be depleted due to water or airway obstruction.
Equipment and Safety Considerations
Using Barrier Devices and Face Shields
Barrier devices and face shields reduce direct contact and lower the risk of transmitting infections during mouth to mouth CPR. Carry a pocket mask as part of your first aid kit for safer rescue breathing.
Hand Hygiene and Post Event Care
After providing mouth to mouth CPR, clean your hands thoroughly, seek medical evaluation if possible exposures occur, and document the event if required by your workplace or local regulations.
Key Takeaways for Effective Mouth to Mouth CPR
- Assess responsiveness and call for emergency help before starting CPR.
- Open the airway with head tilt chin lift and look for normal breathing.
- Deliver rescue breaths with a good seal and steady flow lasting about one second.
- Use barrier devices or face shields to minimize infection risk.
- Combine chest compressions with breaths for the best chance of survival.
- Consider hands only CPR if providing breaths is not feasible or comfortable.
- Practice regularly on manikins to maintain confidence and skill proficiency.
FAQ
Reader questions
Is mouth to mouth CPR safe during infectious disease outbreaks?
Yes, it is safe to perform when necessary, but using a barrier device or face shield helps reduce the risk of disease transmission for both the rescuer and the victim.
What if I am not comfortable giving mouth to mouth breaths?
Hands only CPR with continuous chest compressions is an acceptable alternative if you are unwilling or unable to provide rescue breaths, especially in the early minutes of cardiac arrest.
How long should each rescue breath last during mouth to mouth CPR?
Each breath should last about one second, delivered firmly enough to make the chest rise visibly without excessive ventilation that causes gastric distension.
Can mouth to mouth CPR be performed on infants and small children?
Yes, for infants and small children you can cover both the mouth and nose with your mouth or use gentle puffs for rescue breathing while maintaining proper head tilt and chin lift.