Debunking CPR Myths: What You Really Need to Know

May 18, 2025

When it comes to CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation), misinformation can be just as dangerous as inaction. Whether you’ve seen CPR performed in movies, learned it years ago, or have just always assumed you’d “figure it out” in an emergency, it’s time to separate fact from fiction. Let’s debunk some of the most common myths surrounding CPR and make sure you’re equipped with the truth — because in a real emergency, knowledge saves lives.

Myth #1: You’ll Get Sued If You Perform CPR Incorrectly

Truth: Good Samaritan laws exist in all 50 states to protect bystanders who provide reasonable assistance during emergencies. As long as you’re acting in good faith and within your level of training, you’re legally protected. Fear of legal trouble should never stop you from trying to help someone in cardiac arrest.

Myth #2: You Should Only Perform CPR If You’re Certified

Truth: While certification ensures you’re trained in the most effective techniques, anyone can perform Hands-Only CPR. If you see someone collapse and they’re unresponsive with no pulse or normal breathing, call 911 and begin chest compressions immediately. Push hard and fast in the center of the chest at a rate of 100–120 compressions per minute.

Myth #3: You Need to Give Mouth-to-Mouth Every Time

Truth: For adult cardiac arrests, Hands-Only CPR is the recommended approach for untrained bystanders or those uncomfortable with rescue breaths. It’s far better to do chest compressions alone than to do nothing at all. For children and infants, however, rescue breaths are still crucial and should be part of CPR.

Myth #4: If You Break a Rib, You Did Something Wrong

Truth: Broken ribs can happen during effective CPR — and that’s okay. It means you’re pushing hard enough to circulate blood. The alternative, not pushing hard enough, is far worse. The goal is to keep blood flowing to vital organs until emergency help arrives.

Myth #5: You Can Restart the Heart Like in the Movies

Truth: CPR does not restart the heart like a defibrillator does. Instead, CPR keeps oxygenated blood flowing to the brain and heart until advanced care (like an AED or EMS) can intervene. It’s a temporary measure, but it can double or triple a person’s chance of survival.

Myth #6: CPR Always Works

Truth: Unfortunately, CPR doesn’t guarantee survival — but doing something is always better than doing nothing. The survival rate for out-of-hospital cardiac arrest is low, but immediate CPR can significantly improve outcomes. You might not save every life, but you give them a fighting chance.

Final Thoughts

CPR is a simple skill with the power to save lives. By understanding the truth and letting go of these myths, you empower yourself to take action when it matters most. If you haven’t taken a CPR course recently — or ever — consider signing up. The few hours you spend learning could one day mean everything to someone else.

Want to get certified or refresh your skills? Contact n.e. thing training to schedule a course for your workplace, community group, or friends and family.