As nursing students, you’re on the front lines of patient care, and knowing how to perform CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) is an essential skill that can save lives. Whether in a clinical setting or out in the community, CPR gives you the power to act decisively when every second counts.
Here’s a reality check: at some point, someone will likely perform CPR on you, or you’ll need to perform it on someone else. This realization raises critical questions:
What are the chances of surviving CPR without brain damage?
What if the patient has a DNR (Do Not Resuscitate)?
Can I hurt or kill someone by doing CPR incorrectly?
Could I be held liable for performing CPR?
Is CPR different for adults, children, and infants?
Let’s break these down to demystify CPR and help you build confidence in this life-saving skill.
1. What Are the Chances of Surviving CPR?
Survival rates have improved significantly over the past five years due to advancements in CPR techniques. While survival without brain damage was historically around 4%-7%, today’s best practices increase that to 22%-26%. The key is high-quality compressions and timely intervention. As a nursing student, your training ensures you’re equipped to provide the best chance of survival.
2. What Happens If a Patient Has a DNR?
DNR orders can be confusing. In emergencies, paramedics and bystanders typically won’t check for DNR documents before starting CPR. A DNR is primarily for controlled medical environments like hospitals or hospices, not public spaces. If someone is unresponsive and has no pulse, the default is to start CPR. If the patient has a DNR, you will be notified later on and the resuscitation attempt will stop to honor the patients wishes.
3. Can You Hurt or Kill Someone by Performing CPR?
Performing CPR on someone who isn’t breathing or has no pulse cannot make their condition worse—their heart has already stopped. CPR is designed to circulate oxygenated blood to vital organs. Even if ribs break during compressions (which is common), the priority is saving the person’s life. Remember:
If the ribs pop, don’t stop.
Use appropriate depth and force for each age group (more on this below).
4. Can You Get Sued for Performing CPR?
In Alberta, the Emergency Medical Aid Act previously referred to as the (Good Samaritan Act) protects you from liability when you act in good faith to save a life. To further protect yourself:
Obtain consent when possible.
Stick to your level of training.
Focus on helping, not harming.
5. Is CPR Different for Adults, Children, and Infants?
While the core process—30 compressions followed by 2 breaths—remains the same, technique varies by age group:
Infants (0-1 year): Use 2 fingers for compressions.
Children (1-puberty): Use 1 or 2 hands, depending on the child’s size.
Adults (puberty+): Use both hands for compressions, pressing hard and fast.
Key Takeaways for Nursing Students
CPR saves lives, and anyone can do it with proper training.
Focus on high-quality compressions and breaths.
Don’t hesitate—taking action is always better than doing nothing.
At Saving Grace Medical Academy Ltd., we specialize in preparing nursing students like you with Heart & Stroke Foundation-certified BLS CPR courses. You’ll gain the skills and confidence to act quickly in emergencies, making a difference when it matters most.
Ready to Build Lifesaving Skills?
Enroll in a BLS CPR course today and take the first step in becoming a more effective healthcare professional.
This material is based on information from the Canadian Red Cross, Alberta Heart & Stroke Foundation, and Alberta Health Services. It is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice or instruction.
Protect Yourself. Call 911. Act Fast. Learn First Aid Today and Save a Life Tomorrow with Saving Grace Medical Academy Ltd.
RESOURCES:
Author - Saving Grace Medical Academy Ltd
Jason T
Retired EMT - Heart & Stroke Foundation Senior Instructor