Online Healthcare CPR/AED Course

Get certified in CPR/AED and first aid for all ages—100% online, fast, and reliable. Complete the course in just 1–2 hours and receive instant 2-year certification plus a free mailed wallet card.

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Chapters	CE Credits	Validity	Cost	Duration	ECC	Exam Attempts	Wallet Card
13	4.0	2 Years	$14.95	1-2 Hrs	Compliant	Unlimited	Download/Print/Mail

Chapters13
CE Credits4.0
Validity2 Years
Cost$14.95
Duration1-2 Hrs
ECCCompliant
Exam AttemptsUnlimited
Wallet CardDownload/Print/Mail

Chapter 3: C-A-B

In 2010, the American Heart Association (AHA) and Emergency Cardiovascular Care (ECC) programs introduced a major change in the way CPR is performed. The long-standing A-B-C sequence—Airway, Breathing, Compressions—was flipped to C-A-B: Compressions, Airway, Breathing.

Why the change? Simple: chest compressions were being delayed, and that delay cost precious time when the heart and brain needed oxygen the most. Starting with compressions gets blood flowing faster, improving the chances of survival right from the start.

The steps of the C-A-B method are explained in detail in upcoming chapters, but here’s an overview:

C – Compressions: Start with chest compressions at a rate of 100–120 per minute, using a cycle of 30 compressions followed by 2 breaths (30:2). Allow full chest recoil between compressions. Compression depth varies depending on whether the patient is an adult, child, or infant.
A – Airway: Open the airway using the head-tilt, chin-lift technique.
B – Breathing: Give 2 rescue breaths after each set of compressions.

CPR During COVID-19 (2021 Interim Guidance)

During the COVID-19 pandemic, PPE shortages and transmission risks made it necessary to adjust how CPR is performed—especially in healthcare settings. Key changes include:

Always put on PPE before helping a patient in cardiac arrest
Cover your mouth and nose (and the patient’s, if possible) with a face mask or cloth

For adults:

Hands-only CPR is recommended if PPE is limited
Skip rescue breaths, and focus on fast, strong chest compressions

For children:

Start with chest compressions and rescue breaths
If PPE is available, wear it. If not, a face covering may help reduce transmission risk

These guidelines aim to balance lifesaving care with protection for responders.

2025 Chest Compression Guidance

Updated CPR guidelines continue to recommend a compression rate of at least 100–120 per minute. Going too fast or compressing too deeply may reduce the heart’s ability to refill and negatively impact the outcome. Steady, controlled compressions are key to effective CPR.

Hands-Only CPR (2025 Update)

Sometimes, you may witness an adult or teen collapse unexpectedly—and you might not feel confident giving full CPR. That’s where hands-only CPR comes in. Here’s what to do:

Call 9-1-1 and stay on the line with emergency responders
Begin chest compressions immediately—push hard and fast in the center of the chest

This method skips the rescue breaths but is still proven to be effective—especially when done immediately. Thanks to Good Samaritan laws, you are legally protected when you step in to help.

This chapter is part of your Online Healthcare CPR/AED Course and gives you the foundation for safe, effective response using the modern C-A-B method.

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Chapter 3: C-A-B

CPR During COVID-19 (2021 Interim Guidance)

2025 Chest Compression Guidance

Hands-Only CPR (2025 Update)

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