CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) is a life-saving emergency procedure that combines chest compressions with rescue breaths to keep oxygen-rich blood circulating to the brain, heart, and other vital organs when a person's heartbeat or breathing has stopped. It is the single most important intervention a bystander or healthcare provider can perform during cardiac arrest, buying critical time until advanced care arrives.

High-quality CPR centers on pushing hard and fast at the center of the chest — at least 2 inches (5 cm) deep and 100–120 compressions per minute — while minimizing interruptions and allowing the chest to fully recoil between compressions. When trained rescuers are available, compressions are paired with rescue breaths and, where indicated, an AED and medications such as epinephrine.

For every minute that passes without CPR, the chance of survival from sudden cardiac arrest drops significantly, which is why immediate, confident response matters. CPR Certification Labs provides hands-on, American Heart Association–aligned CPR, BLS, ACLS, and PALS training so healthcare professionals and everyday responders can perform these skills correctly under pressure. See BLS (Basic Life Support) and the CPR Cycle for related concepts.