When is it appropriate to stop CPR?

Stopping CPR is an important decision that should be made based on specific criteria. It is appropriate to stop CPR when emergency medical services (EMS) arrive and take over the care of the patient. This transition ensures that a higher level of medical support can be provided, which is essential for the patient's chance of survival and recovery.

Another valid reason to discontinue CPR is if the person starts to breathe normally again. The restoration of normal breathing indicates that the person may be recovering and no longer requires continued resuscitation efforts. This is a critical sign of life and suggests that ongoing CPR may not be necessary.

Additionally, if you, as the rescuer, become too fatigued to continue, it may be necessary to stop. Continuous high-quality CPR is vital, and if you are unable to perform it effectively due to exhaustion, this should prompt you to cease the effort and alert EMS to take over.

The inclusion of all these scenarios as reasons to stop CPR underscores the importance of understanding when it is appropriate to end resuscitation efforts, ensuring that the care provided is effective and safe for both the rescuer and the patient.