What might indicate that you should stop CPR?

Stopping CPR is a critical decision that should be made based on specific indicators that suggest the person is no longer in need of resuscitation or that you cannot continue effectively. Each scenario represents a valid reason for stopping CPR.

When the person begins to breathe normally, this is a strong indication that their heart and respiratory system may be recovering, allowing the individual to resume normal breathing. In such a case, continuing CPR is unnecessary and could potentially cause harm.

If you become too tired to continue performing CPR, it is essential to recognize your limits. High-quality CPR requires physical stamina and focus; exhaustion can compromise the effectiveness of resuscitation efforts. In a situation where you're unable to maintain the necessary depth and rate of compressions, stopping is warranted.

The arrival of an ambulance signifies that trained medical professionals are now in charge of the situation. They can take over resuscitation efforts and provide advanced life support, so it is appropriate to cease CPR once emergency responders are on-site.

Understanding these scenarios helps ensure that you can assess when it is appropriate to stop CPR, maintaining a focus on the well-being of the individual in distress.