Quick Answer
It's inappropriate to perform CPR on someone who is deceased, as it is not possible to revive them. It's also not recommended for individuals who are known to be brain dead or have a terminal illness. In addition, CPR should not be performed on individuals who have a severe head injury and show no signs of breathing.
When to Avoid CPR
When deciding whether to perform CPR, consider the individual’s condition. If they have a severe head injury, such as bleeding from the ear or a deep gash, and show no signs of breathing, CPR should not be attempted. This is because the injury may have caused irreversible damage to the brain.
DNR and Medical Decisions
If the individual has a Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) order or is known to have a terminal illness, CPR should not be performed. This decision should be respected and followed as per the individual’s wishes or medical directives. In these cases, prioritizing comfort and pain management is usually more effective.
Physical Incompatibility
CPR should not be performed on individuals who are deceased or have been deceased for an extended period. Generally, it’s recommended to wait at least 20 minutes after the last seen signs of life before declaring someone deceased. However, if the individual has no pulse, is not breathing, and has no signs of circulation, CPR is not recommended.
Find more answers
Browse the full Q&A library by topic, or jump back to the topic this question belongs to.