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CPR/AED vs BLS: What Is the Difference? Which One Do You Need?

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When it’s time to get certified in life-saving skills, you’ll likely run into two main options: CPR/AED and BLS. On the surface, they seem identical. Both involve chest compressions, both teach you how to use a defibrillator, and both save lives.

However, picking the wrong one could mean your employer won’t accept your certificate, or worse, you won’t be trained for the specific environment where you work. Whether you are a fitness instructor in Austin or a nurse at a local hospital, understanding the “why” and “how” behind these certifications is essential for professional compliance and public safety.

What exactly is the difference between CPR/AED and BLS?

The primary difference lies in the target audience and the depth of training.

CPR/AED (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation & Automated External Defibrillator) is designed for “laypeople”—the general public. It focuses on the basic skills needed to keep someone alive until professional help arrives. It is perfect for people who might encounter an emergency at a grocery store, a gym, or a school.

BLS (Basic Life Support) is a higher-level certification specifically designed for healthcare providers and public safety professionals. It includes everything in a standard CPR course but adds advanced techniques. BLS training assumes you will be working in a team environment (like a hospital or an ambulance) and using professional-grade equipment.

Is BLS more difficult than a standard CPR course?

While “difficult” is subjective, BLS is certainly more comprehensive. In a standard CPR/AED class, you learn how to act as a lone rescuer. In a BLS class, you are trained to work as part of a high-performance team.

Key skill additions in BLS include:

  • Bag-Valve Mask (BVM) Ventilation: Learning to use a manual resuscitator rather than just mouth-to-mouth or a simple pocket mask.
  • Two-Rescuer Scenarios: Coordinating with a partner to switch roles every two minutes to prevent fatigue.
  • Pulse Checks: BLS students are trained to check for a pulse for no more than 10 seconds, a skill not typically emphasized in layperson classes.
  • Advanced Airway Support: How to provide breaths when an advanced airway (like an endotracheal tube) is in place.

Who should choose a CPR/AED certification?

If your job is not in the medical field, CPR/AED is usually the right choice. This certification meets the requirements for OSHA-mandated workplace safety.

You should choose CPR/AED if you are:

  • A Teacher or Coach: Most school districts and athletic departments require this level of training.
  • A Fitness Instructor: Gyms and yoga studios need you to know how to use an AED and perform compressions.
  • A Construction Worker: Many job sites require basic safety certifications.
  • A Parent or Caregiver: If you simply want to be prepared to protect your family, this course provides the essential skills without the medical jargon.
  • A Security Guard: Most security roles only require layperson-level training.

Who is required to have a BLS certification?

If you work in a clinical setting or are a student in a medical program, you almost certainly need BLS. Most healthcare employers will not accept a “Heartsaver” or “CPR/AED” card; they specifically look for “BLS Provider.”

You need BLS if you are:

  • A Nurse or Doctor: Hospitals require BLS as a baseline for all clinical staff.
  • A Dentist or Dental Hygienist: Most state boards require BLS for dental licensure.
  • An EMT or Paramedic: First responders must be experts in team-based resuscitation.
  • A Physical Therapist: Even in outpatient clinics, BLS is the standard.
  • A Medical Student: Most clinical rotations require a current BLS card before you can step onto the floor.

Do the skills taught in CPR/AED and BLS overlap?

Yes, there is significant overlap. Both courses are built on the same American Heart Association (AHA) guidelines. Regardless of which class you take, you will master the “Chain of Survival.”

Common skills in both courses include:

  • Recognizing the signs of cardiac arrest.
  • Performing high-quality chest compressions (depth and rate).
  • Safe and effective use of an AED.
  • Relief of choking (foreign body airway obstruction) for adults and infants.
  • Providing rescue breaths.

The difference isn’t the quality of the compressions; it’s the context in which those compressions are delivered and the equipment used to facilitate breathing.

Which certification does the American Heart Association (AHA) recommend?

The AHA doesn’t necessarily recommend one over the other for everyone; rather, they provide different “tracks” based on your role.

  • The Heartsaver Track: This includes CPR/AED and First Aid. It is written in simple, non-medical language. It is designed to be accessible to anyone regardless of their educational background.
  • The BLS Provider Track: This is written for the medical professional. It uses clinical terminology and focuses on patient outcomes in a professional setting.

In Austin and throughout Texas, most professional organizations follow AHA standards. Ensuring you have an AHA-approved card is often more important than the title of the course itself, as many “online-only” certifications are not recognized by employers or regulatory boards.

How long do these certifications last?

Both CPR/AED and BLS certifications are valid for two years. After 24 months, you must take a renewal or “update” course to maintain your credentials.

Staying current is vital because:

  • Skills Fade: Research shows that CPR skills begin to decline just a few months after training.
  • Updated Guidelines: The AHA updates its science every few years. A renewal class ensures you are using the most effective techniques.
  • Legal Compliance: Most employers require an active card to stay on the schedule.

Can you take a BLS class if you aren’t a healthcare provider?

Absolutely! While BLS is designed for healthcare professionals, anyone can take the course. If you are a “super-user” who wants the most in-depth training available, BLS is a great option. It provides a more technical look at the mechanics of the heart and the science of resuscitation.

However, be prepared for a faster-paced environment and a written exam that assumes a basic understanding of medical concepts. If you aren’t comfortable with technical terminology, the standard CPR/AED class is much more approachable.

How do I find a class near me?

Finding the right class in your local area is easy. You should look for a training center that offers both options so you can be sure you’re getting the right level of training for your career path.

When searching for a class:

  • Check the Provider: Ensure they are an authorized AHA or Red Cross training site.
  • Look for Blended Learning: Many centers offer “HeartCode” or “Simulation Learning,” which allows you to do the book work online and come in person only for the skills check.
  • Verify the Card: Make sure you will receive your eCard the same day so you can provide proof to your employer immediately.

What are the key technical differences in the training?

When you sit down for a BLS class versus a CPR/AED class, you will notice distinct differences in the curriculum.

In a CPR/AED class:

  • You focus on 1-person CPR.
  • You use a simple barrier device for breaths.
  • You are taught to look for “signs of life” or breathing.

In a BLS class:

  • You focus on 1-person and 2-person CPR.
  • You use a Bag-Valve Mask (BVM) which requires two hands to seal correctly.
  • You are taught to check a carotid pulse for at least 5 but no more than 10 seconds.
  • You learn the “team lead” concept to manage a cardiac arrest scene.

Conclusion

Choosing between CPR/AED and BLS doesn’t have to be complicated. If you are a medical professional or student, go with BLS. If you are a teacher, coach, or concerned citizen, CPR/AED is your best bet. Both paths empower you with the confidence to act when a life is on the line.

Regardless of the acronym on your card, the most important thing is that you are trained and ready. Every minute counts in a cardiac emergency, and your training could be the difference between a life lost and a life saved.

Ready to get certified? 

Whether you need a layperson CPR/AED card or a professional BLS Provider certification, we’ve got you covered with expert instructors and flexible schedules. Contact CPR Classes Near Me today to find a session that fits your schedule and career needs!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: If I have a BLS card, do I also need a CPR/AED card?

No. BLS is a higher level of certification that encompasses all the skills taught in a standard CPR/AED course. If you are BLS certified, you are over-qualified for roles that only require CPR/AED and your card will be accepted.

Q: Does BLS include First Aid?

Not usually. BLS focuses strictly on cardiovascular and respiratory emergencies in a clinical context. Most healthcare providers take First Aid as a separate course if required by their specific job, whereas many “Heartsaver” courses bundle CPR/AED and First Aid together for convenience.

Q: Can I get my BLS certification entirely online?

No. While you can do the “cognitive” (lecture) portion online via an AHA-approved portal, you must attend an in-person skills practice and testing session with a certified instructor to receive a valid BLS Provider card. Employers will generally not accept “online-only” cards without a hands-on component.

Q: What happens if my certification expires?

If your card expires, you are technically no longer certified. Most training centers require you to take the full “Initial” course rather than a shorter “Renewal” course if your card is even one day past its expiration date. It is always better to renew 30 days before the expiration.

Q: Is there an age limit for BLS or CPR classes?

There is no formal age limit set by the American Heart Association. As long as a student can physically perform the compressions to the required depth and pass the skills test, they can be certified. Most instructors find that children around age 10-12 are physically capable of meeting the requirements.

CPR Certification for EMT-Track Students: What You Need First

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So, you’ve decided to become an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT). That’s a massive first step toward a rewarding career in public safety and healthcare. You’re probably already looking at EMT programs, checking tuition costs, and maybe even eyeing that high-vis gear. But before you can jump on an ambulance for your first clinical rotation, there is one “gatekeeper” certification you absolutely must have in hand: professional-level CPR.

If you are an EMT-track student, you can’t just walk into any weekend CPR class and call it a day. The requirements for medical professionals are specific, and getting the wrong type of certification can stall your education before it even begins.

In this guide, we’ll break down exactly what type of CPR certification you need, why it’s a non-negotiable prerequisite, and how you can get certified today to stay on track for your EMT career.

Why is CPR certification required before starting EMT school?

You might wonder why you need to be CPR certified before you even start learning how to be an EMT. Isn’t that what the school is for? While EMT programs do teach life-saving skills, they operate on the assumption that you already possess a baseline of professional resuscitation knowledge.

  1. Safety and Liability: EMT students participate in clinical “ride-alongs.” During these shifts, you are part of a working medical team. If a patient goes into cardiac arrest, you must be legally qualified to assist immediately.
  2. Program Prerequisites: Most accredited EMT programs require proof of a valid healthcare-level CPR card as part of the application packet. Without it, your application is often considered incomplete.
  3. National Standards: The National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) requires all candidates to have a current, professional-level CPR credential to be eligible for the national exam.

What is the difference between standard CPR and BLS for healthcare providers?

This is where many students get tripped up. There are “Heartsaver” or “Layperson” CPR classes, and then there is “Basic Life Support” (BLS). If you are on the EMT track, you must take the BLS version.

Standard CPR (Layperson):

  • Designed for teachers, coaches, and office workers.
  • Focuses on single-rescuer response.
  • Covers basic chest compressions and breaths.

BLS (Basic Life Support):

  • Designed specifically for healthcare professionals and first responders.
  • Includes two-rescuer CPR techniques.
  • Covers the use of a Bag-Valve-Mask (BVM), which is a standard piece of equipment on every ambulance.
  • Includes advanced AED protocols and team dynamics.
  • Covers adult, child, and infant resuscitation.

When you sign up for a class at CPR Classes Near Me, make sure you select the BLS for Healthcare Providers option. This ensures your card will be accepted by your EMT program and the NREMT.

Can I take my CPR certification course entirely online?

In short: No. While the internet is great for learning theory, you cannot learn the physical “muscle memory” of high-quality chest compressions through a computer screen.

  • Hands-on Skills are Mandatory: To earn a certification that is valid for EMT school, you must perform a skills check-off in front of a certified instructor.
  • Hybrid Options: Many students prefer “Blended Learning.” This allows you to complete the lecture and video portions online at your own pace, then visit a local facility for a 1-hour in-person skills session.
  • Employer Acceptance: Almost no ambulance service or hospital will accept an “online-only” CPR card that does not include an in-person skills verification.

What specific topics are covered in an EMT-level CPR class?

A BLS course is more rigorous than a standard class because the stakes are higher for first responders. During your training at CPR Classes Near Me, you will master several critical skills:

  1. High-Quality Chest Compressions: Learning the exact depth (at least 2 inches for adults) and rate (100–120 compressions per minute) required to circulate blood effectively.
  2. Multi-Rescuer Coordination: EMTs never work alone. You’ll learn how to switch roles with a partner seamlessly to prevent fatigue.
  3. Airway Management: You will practice using a Bag-Valve-Mask (BVM) to provide ventilations, a skill you will use frequently as an EMT.
  4. AED Operation: You’ll learn how to integrate an automated external defibrillator into the resuscitation cycle without interrupting compressions.
  5. Choking Relief: Advanced techniques for clearing obstructed airways in conscious and unconscious patients of all ages.

How long does a BLS certification stay valid for students?

For most organizations, including the American Heart Association (AHA) and the Red Cross, a BLS certification is valid for two years.

However, as an EMT student, timing is everything. If your card expires in the middle of your EMT course, you may be barred from attending your clinical rotations. It is highly recommended to get certified shortly before your program begins so that your credential remains active throughout your schooling and into your first few months of employment.

How do I find a class that fits an EMT student’s schedule?

We know that EMT-track students are busy. Many are balancing prerequisites, full-time jobs, or volunteer fire department duties. CPR Classes Near Me offers flexible scheduling to ensure you don’t fall behind.

  • Frequent Classes: We offer sessions throughout the week, including evenings and weekends.
  • Immediate Certification: Most of our students receive their digital provider card the same day they complete their skills session.
  • Convenient Locations: Our goal is to provide training within a short drive of your home or campus.

Is First Aid certification required alongside CPR for EMTs?

While many layperson classes bundle CPR and First Aid together, EMT students usually only need the standalone BLS (CPR) certification.

Why? Because your EMT program is essentially a 150+ hour advanced first aid course. You will spend months learning how to splint limbs, control bleeding, and treat burns in much greater detail than a standard 4-hour First Aid class provides. However, always check your specific program’s “required documents” list to be certain.

What should I bring to my first CPR class?

Preparing for your BLS class is the first step in practicing the professional habits you’ll need as an EMT. Here is what you should have ready:

  • Comfortable Clothing: You will be on your knees on the floor practicing on mannequins. Wear pants and comfortable shoes.
  • Pre-course Work: If you chose a blended learning format, bring a printout or digital copy of your “Part 1” completion certificate.
  • Notebook: While much of the class is hands-on, there are key ratios and numbers (like compression-to-breath ratios) that you’ll want to remember for your EMT entrance exams.

Ready to Start Your EMT Journey?

Becoming an EMT is a commitment to your community and a major career milestone. Don’t let a missing prerequisite hold you back from your goals. At CPR Classes Near Me, we specialize in providing the high-quality, professional-level BLS training that EMT programs demand.

Our instructors are experienced and understand the specific needs of future first responders. We make the process straightforward, fast, and educational, so you can focus on what matters most: passing your EMT course and saving lives.

Contact CPR Classes Near Me today to find a BLS for Healthcare Providers class and take the first step toward your EMT certification!

Frequently Asked Questions

Does a standard CPR card count for EMT school? 

Generally, no. Most EMT programs specifically require “BLS for Healthcare Providers” or “Professional Rescuer” level certification. Standard “Heartsaver” or community CPR cards usually lack the two-rescuer and BVM (Bag-Valve-Mask) training required for medical professionals.

Do I need to be 18 to get CPR certified? 

While you usually need to be 18 to finish an EMT program or work on an ambulance, there is typically no age requirement for CPR certification. Many students get certified at 17 so they are ready to enroll in EMT school the moment they turn 18.

How long does the BLS class take? 

A full in-person BLS class typically takes about 4 to 4.5 hours. If you choose the blended learning option (online lecture + in-person skills), the in-person portion usually takes about 1 to 2 hours.

What happens if I fail the CPR skills test? 

Our instructors at CPR Classes Near Me are dedicated to your success. If you struggle with a specific skill, we will work with you, provide corrections, and allow you to practice until you can perform the skill competently.

Can I use my CPR card in other states? 

Yes. BLS certifications from the American Heart Association or Red Cross are nationally recognized and are valid across the United States.

CPR Certification: What It Is and Why It Matters

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Imagine you are at a local grocery store, a high school basketball game, or a family dinner. Suddenly, someone nearby collapses. They aren’t breathing, and they don’t have a pulse. At that moment, the clock starts ticking. Every second that passes without intervention decreases their chance of survival. Would you know what to do?

This is where CPR certification moves from being a “good idea” to an “essential life skill.” While many people think CPR is only for doctors or nurses, the reality is that most cardiac arrests happen in public or at home. The person most likely to save a life isn’t a surgeon in an operating room—it’s a bystander with the right training.

In this guide, we’ll dive deep into what CPR certification actually entails, why it is so critical for everyone (not just healthcare pros), and how you can take the first step toward becoming a neighborhood hero.

What Exactly Is CPR Certification?

CPR certification is a formal credential that proves you have undergone professional training in Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation. It isn’t just about reading a book or watching a video; it is a comprehensive educational process that combines theory with hands-on practice.

When you earn a certification, it means you have demonstrated to a certified instructor that you understand the mechanics of the human heart and lungs. You’ve shown you can perform high-quality chest compressions and provide rescue breaths according to current medical standards, such as those set by the American Heart Association (AHA) or the Red Cross.

A typical certification covers:

  • Recognizing the signs of sudden cardiac arrest.
  • How to call for emergency services effectively.
  • The proper depth and rate of chest compressions.
  • The use of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED).
  • How to assist a choking victim.

Most certifications are valid for two years. This is because life-saving skills are “perishable.” Without practice, your technique can fade, and medical guidelines are updated regularly as we learn more about how to save lives more effectively.

Why Is CPR Certification So Important for the General Public?

You might think, “I’ll just call 911.” While calling 911 is the first step, emergency medical services (EMS) take time to arrive—often between 8 to 12 minutes. Brain damage can begin in as little as 4 minutes without oxygen. CPR acts as a manual pump, keeping oxygenated blood flowing to the brain until professionals arrive.

Here are a few reasons why it matters for everyone:

  • Immediate Action: You become the bridge between the collapse and the arrival of the ambulance.
  • Confidence Over Panic: In an emergency, adrenaline spikes. Without training, most people freeze. Certification gives you a “mental script” to follow, allowing you to act decisively.
  • Protecting Loved Ones: Statistically, 70% of out-of-hospital cardiac arrests happen at home. Your training is most likely to be used on a family member or friend.
  • Empowering Communities: A community where more people are certified is a safer community. It creates a network of safety in parks, offices, and schools.

What Happens During a CPR Training Class?

If you’ve never been to a CPR class, you might feel a bit nervous about what to expect. There’s no need to worry. CPR classes are designed to be supportive, engaging, and highly practical. They are built for people of all backgrounds and physical abilities.

When you walk into a class at CPR Classes Near Me, you can expect the following:

  1. Expert Instruction: You’ll be guided by an experienced instructor who has seen these scenarios in real life. They explain the “why” behind every movement.
  2. Hands-On Practice: You won’t just sit in a chair. You’ll use medical-grade manikins to practice compressions. This helps you get a feel for how much pressure is required.
  3. AED Demonstration: You will learn how to use an Automated External Defibrillator. These machines are very easy to use—they actually talk to you—but practicing with a trainer model builds the confidence to use one in a real emergency.
  4. Skills Testing: At the end of the session, the instructor will watch you perform the skills you’ve learned. Once you demonstrate proficiency, you receive your certification.

The goal isn’t to make you a doctor; it’s to make you a capable first responder who can keep someone stable until the cavalry arrives.

Is Online CPR Certification Enough?

In the digital age, many people wonder if they can just get certified through a quick online quiz. While online courses can provide great “head knowledge,” they often lack the most important element: the hands-on component.

Performing CPR is a physical task. It requires a specific depth (about 2 inches for adults) and a specific rhythm (100–120 beats per minute). It is very difficult to judge if you are doing this correctly without a manikin that provides feedback or an instructor who can correct your form.

Most employers—especially in healthcare, education, and childcare—require a certification that includes an in-person skills check. At CPR Classes Near Me, we focus on that hands-on experience because we know it’s what actually saves lives when the pressure is on.

Who Should Consider Getting Certified?

The short answer is: everyone. However, for certain groups, CPR certification is either a job requirement or a critical safety necessity.

  • Parents and Caregivers: Infants and children require different CPR techniques than adults. Learning these can prevent a tragedy during a choking or drowning incident.
  • Teachers and Coaches: Educators are on the front lines. With kids running around and playing sports, the risk of injury or respiratory distress is higher.
  • Fitness Professionals: Gyms are high-risk environments for cardiac events due to the physical strain on the heart.
  • Workplace Safety Officers: Every office should have at least a few people who know how to use the office AED and perform CPR.
  • Healthcare Providers: For nurses, dental assistants, and physical therapists, Basic Life Support (BLS) certification is a standard requirement for employment.

What Is the Difference Between CPR and BLS?

When looking for classes, you might see two different terms: Heartsaver CPR and BLS (Basic Life Support). It’s important to know which one you need.

  • Heartsaver CPR/AED: This is designed for the general public—teachers, fitness trainers, and corporate employees. It covers the basics of CPR, AED use, and choking relief for adults, children, and infants.
  • BLS (Basic Life Support): This is a more advanced level of training designed for healthcare professionals. It includes everything in the Heartsaver course plus advanced techniques like multi-rescuer coordination and the use of bag-mask devices.

If you aren’t sure which one to take, the team at CPR Classes Near Me can help you determine which course fits your needs or job requirements.

How Does an AED Work With CPR?

You’ve probably seen AED boxes in airports or malls. They are small, portable devices that can literally “reboot” a heart that has an irregular rhythm. CPR and AEDs are a team.

While CPR keeps the blood moving manually, it rarely stops the underlying cause of the cardiac arrest. The AED is the tool that can stop the chaotic electrical activity in the heart (ventricular fibrillation) and allow a normal rhythm to return.

In a certification class, you learn:

  • Where to place the electrode pads.
  • How to ensure no one is touching the victim when the shock is delivered.
  • How to immediately resume CPR after the shock.

Using an AED within the first 3 to 5 minutes of collapse can increase survival rates to as high as 50% to 70%. Without an AED, the chances drop significantly every minute.

How Can You Maintain Your CPR Skills?

As mentioned earlier, CPR certification typically lasts for two years. But why? Studies show that CPR skills begin to decline as early as six months after training. You might forget the exact compression-to-breath ratio or feel hesitant about where to place your hands.

To stay sharp, we recommend:

  • Regular Review: Glance at your provider manual or digital resources every few months.
  • Watch Refreshers: Look at updated videos on proper technique.
  • Recertify Early: Don’t wait for your card to expire. Schedule your renewal class a month or two in advance.

By keeping your certification current, you ensure that if you ever have to use your skills, they will be second nature.

Why Choose a Local Class Over a National Chain?

When you search for “CPR classes,” you’ll find plenty of options. However, there is a distinct advantage to choosing a local provider like CPR Classes Near Me.

  • Personalized Attention: Smaller class sizes mean the instructor can spend more time with you, ensuring your technique is perfect.
  • Local Instructors: Our instructors are members of your community. They understand local emergency response times and community needs.
  • Flexible Scheduling: We know you’re busy. Local providers often offer more frequent classes at times that work for working professionals and busy parents.
  • Quick Documentation: Getting your certification card shouldn’t take weeks. We prioritize getting your credentials to you as quickly as possible.

Conclusion

CPR certification is more than just a piece of paper or a digital card. It is an investment in the safety of your family, your coworkers, and your community. It transforms you from a helpless bystander into a capable rescuer. Whether you are a parent wanting to protect your child, a professional meeting a job requirement, or simply a Good Samaritan, the skills you learn in a CPR class are the most valuable skills you will ever own.

The heart is a fragile thing, but with the right training, you have the power to keep it beating. Don’t wait for an emergency to happen before you decide to learn. Be prepared, be confident, and be the difference between a tragedy and a success story.

Ready to gain the skills that save lives? Contact CPR Classes Near Me today to find a local class and get certified!

FAQ Section

How long does a CPR certification class take?

Most in-person CPR and AED classes for the general public take between 2 to 3 hours. If you are taking a professional-level BLS (Basic Life Support) course, it may take 3 to 4 hours. The duration depends on the size of the class and the specific modules being covered (such as adding first aid).

Is the CPR test difficult?

The test is designed to ensure you understand the life-saving basics, not to “trick” you. It consists of a practical skills demonstration where you show the instructor you can perform compressions and use an AED, followed by a simple multiple-choice written exam. Most students find that if they pay attention during the hands-on portion, the test is very manageable.

Do I need to be physically fit to perform CPR?

While CPR is a physical activity, you do not need to be an athlete to do it. The most important factor is technique. Instructors teach you how to use your body weight rather than just your arm strength. If you have physical limitations, instructors can often show you modifications or how to direct others to assist.

Can I be sued for performing CPR?

In the United States, “Good Samaritan” laws protect individuals who provide voluntary assistance in an emergency. As long as you act in good faith and within the scope of your training without expecting compensation, you are generally protected from legal liability.

Does CPR always work?

Unfortunately, CPR is not a guarantee of survival. Its purpose is to buy time for professional medical help and defibrillation to arrive. However, performing CPR significantly increases the victim’s chances of survival compared to doing nothing at all. Even if the outcome isn’t what we hope for, knowing you did everything possible is vital.