A new consumer survey from the American Heart Association reveals that nearly six in ten American adults mistakenly believe that only individuals with special training should perform Hands-Only CPR. This misconception, perpetuated despite clear scientific evidence that immediate CPR improves outcomes, can be the difference between life and death during cardiac emergencies, which often occur outside hospital settings.
According to the American Heart Association's 2026 CPR Perceptions Survey, the belief that CPR requires certification or a formal class remains widespread. Stacey E. Rosen, M.D., FAHA, volunteer president of the American Heart Association and senior vice president of women's health at Northwell Health, emphasized that the public's fear of 'doing it wrong' is unfounded. 'Here's what matters - if a teen or adult collapses: call 911, then push hard and fast in the center of the chest,' she said. 'Your hands can keep blood flowing until professionals arrive.'
Research indicates that Hands-Only CPR can double or even triple a person's chance of survival. However, bystanders currently step in with CPR only about 41% of the time. The Heart Association's new campaign, 'You Are the First Responder Until Help Arrives,' aims to change that by reinforcing that no medical credentials are needed to save a life—only basic knowledge, courage, and willingness to act.
The survey also highlights disparities: women and Black adults are less likely to receive CPR. The association addresses barriers such as fear of legal repercussions, concerns about inappropriate contact, and the persistent myth of required training, which is especially common in historically excluded communities.
Kristen Walenga's story illustrates the impact of bystander CPR. She collapsed from sudden cardiac arrest at home, and her 15-year-old son, Eddie, who learned CPR from the American Heart Association's Kids Heart Challenge program, performed chest compressions until paramedics arrived. Kristen survived because of her child's preparation and courage.
Hands-Only CPR for teens and adults involves two simple steps: call 911, then push hard and fast in the center of the chest at 100–120 beats per minute, about the tempo of 'Stayin’ Alive' or 'Uptown Funk.' If an automated external defibrillator (AED) is available, turn it on and follow voice prompts. For infants and children, CPR must include breaths.
During American Heart Month, the Heart Association encourages people to learn CPR through flexible options: watch the basics of Hands-Only CPR online, take a class at heart.org/nation, or bring CPR to circles by developing cardiac emergency response plans and securing an AED.
'CPR is a civic duty. Heroism is not limited to uniforms, it is everyday people stepping up for others,' said Rosen. 'Strong communities are built by preparedness. Whether you’re at home, the gym, or a child’s soccer game, cardiac arrest can happen anywhere, and you will most likely be saving the life of someone you know and love.'
The campaign aligns with the Heart Association's Nation of Lifesavers initiative, sponsored nationally by Walgreens, aiming to double survival from out-of-hospital cardiac arrest by 2030.
