.png){kind=small}
.png){kind=small}
.png){kind=small}
Is Mouth-to-Mouth Still Recommended for CPR?
The short answer: Not usually.
For most adults experiencing sudden cardiac arrest, the American Heart Association (AHA) now recommends hands-only CPR for bystanders. That means no rescue breaths—just chest compressions.
So why the change?
Mouth-to-mouth resuscitation has been a CPR standard since the 1960s. But today, medical experts say that in many cases, it does more harm than good, especially when performed by untrained individuals.
3 Reasons Mouth-to-Mouth CPR Is No Longer Advised for Most Bystanders
- Lower Willingness to Help
Studies show that bystanders are less likely to begin CPR if they think they have to give mouth-to-mouth, especially to strangers. - Interrupts Life-Saving Chest Compressions
Rescue breaths delay effective compressions. In many cardiac arrest cases, the body still has oxygen in the blood—the priority is to circulate it with compressions. - Increased Risk of Disease Transmission
In the era of COVID-19, RSV, and flu variants, the risk of airborne disease transmission is higher. This has made many people more cautious about direct mouth contact, even in emergencies.
Bottom line: If you're not a healthcare professional or trained responder, stick to hands-only CPR unless otherwise directed by 911 dispatch.
Hands-Only CPR: What to Do Instead
If you witness someone collapse:
- Check the scene for safety
- Tap and shout to check responsiveness
- Call 911 immediately
- Begin chest compressions at a rate of 100–120 per minute (think: Stayin' Alive tempo)
- Push hard and fast in the center of the chest
Many communities now have public AEDs (automated external defibrillators) nearby. Use one if available—it can save a life.
.png)
When Is Mouth-to-Mouth Still Needed?
There are still situations where rescue breathing is critical, especially when cardiac arrest is caused by non-cardiac reasons, such as:
- Infants and toddlers
- Drowning victims
- Drug overdoses
- Choking or airway blockages
- Asthma attacks or carbon monoxide poisoning
In these cases, there may not be enough oxygen in the blood, so rescue breaths improve survival chances. If you're trained in CPR, use a 30:2 ratio of compressions to breaths.
Use Barrier Devices for Safety
If rescue breaths are necessary:
- Use a CPR face shield or mask to protect both you and the victim from disease transmission.
- Many portable AED kits (like the HeartStart or Defibtech Lifeline) include breathing masks with one-way valves.
- CPR keychain kits with face shields are inexpensive and can be a great addition to first aid kits, gym bags, or workstations.
Should You Still Get CPR Certified? Absolutely!
Whether you're a coach, teacher, parent, or business owner, up-to-date CPR training saves lives. Classes are quick, affordable, and can now often be done in a hybrid format (online + in-person skills check).
Training also prepares you to respond confidently in situations that require full CPR with rescue breathing.
When to Go to the Hospital—and When to Follow Up with BASS Medical Group
If someone collapses or is experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 immediately and have them taken to the nearest hospital. Sudden cardiac arrest is a life-threatening emergency, and timely response is critical.
After the emergency is addressed, you can follow up with a BASS Medical Group specialist—such as a cardiologist, internist, or primary care provider—to manage long-term heart health, screenings, or rehabilitation.
- Find a Specialty Doctor: Browse Our Physicians
- Schedule a Follow-Up: Fill Out our Appointment Contact Form
.png)
.png)