If you’re wondering whether CPR has changed recently—or just want to make sure you’re doing it right—you’re not alone. Plenty of people are Googling things like “Do I still need to give rescue breaths?” or “Has the CPR ratio changed?” to stay up to date. While there haven’t been any big updates for 2025 so far, some recent changes (mainly for advanced care) might leave you with questions.
This guide breaks down what first aiders need to know right now, answers common questions about CPR, and explains how you can stay informed.What First Aiders Need to Know
If you’re performing CPR as a first aider, the good news is that the basics haven’t changed. Here’s what you need to remember:Rescue Breaths Still Matter
The gold standard for CPR is still 30 chest compressions followed by 2 rescue breaths. This 30:2 ratio is used for adults, children, infants, and elderly people.- Why breaths are important: Rescue breaths deliver oxygen to the blood, which is crucial for keeping the brain and organs alive during cardiac arrest.
- Hands-only CPR: If you’re unable or unwilling to give breaths, doing chest compressions alone can still save a life. However, including breaths whenever possible is more effective.

Hands-Only CPR Works Too
Chest compressions alone are better than doing nothing. Studies show that hands-only CPR can double or triple survival rates when started immediately. But if you’re trained and able, combining compressions with breaths is even better.Compression Quality is Critical
For CPR to work, compressions need to be the right depth and speed:- Adults: Push at least 5 cm (about 2 inches).
- Children/Infants: Push about one-third the depth of the chest.
- Rate: Compress at 100–120 beats per minute (think of the rhythm of “Stayin’ Alive”).

Did CPR Guidelines Change in 2024?
Yes, but the updates mainly focused on advanced care for healthcare professionals, not general first aiders. Here’s a quick look at what changed in the 2024 ANZCOR guidelines:- Precordial Thump: Now only recommended for specific cases of monitored pulseless ventricular tachycardia (pVT) in advanced care settings where defibrillation isn’t immediately available.
- Percussion (Fist) Pacing: Suggested only for severe bradyarrhythmias in advanced care settings where other options aren’t available.
- Post-Resuscitation Care: Greater emphasis on oxygenation, avoiding hypoxia (too little oxygen) or hyperoxia (too much oxygen), and stabilizing the patient after resuscitation.
Why Are Guidelines Updated?
Guidelines are updated to reflect the latest research and make sure everyone is using the most effective techniques to save lives. In Australia and New Zealand, these updates are shaped by groups like:- The Australian Resuscitation Council (ARC): Australia’s authority on resuscitation guidelines. It develops recommendations for both advanced care providers and first aiders.
- The Australian and New Zealand Committee on Resuscitation (ANZCOR): Brings together experts from Australia and New Zealand to create consistent guidelines tailored to this region.
- International Liaison Committee on Resuscitation (ILCOR): Oversees global resuscitation science, pooling research from around the world to set an international standard. Their findings inform ARC and ANZCOR’s guidelines, but local committees decide how to apply these recommendations.
Staying Updated
Whether you’re new to CPR or experienced, it’s worth staying up to date with the latest guidelines. The basics of CPR are unlikely to change dramatically, but updates may refine techniques or highlight new priorities. Regularly reviewing guidelines or taking refresher courses is the best way to ensure you’re confident and ready to act.References
- ANZCOR Guideline 11.3 – Precordial Thump and Percussion Fist Pacing (April 2024) View Guideline
- ANZCOR Guideline 11.7 – Post-Resuscitation Care (June 2024) View Guideline
- Chest Compression Quality and Survival Rates Read Study
Hi there! I'm Jack Majlinger. I began my first aid journey back in 2012, with my first "first aid" course. It was after a hiking accident where a friend had to be airlifted. Over the years, my first aid skills grew, I volunteered at equestrian events and local shows and became a first aid trainer.
When I'm not working on content, I enjoy spotting birds in the wild and writing jangle pop tunes.