When is it appropriate to stop performing CPR?

The appropriate time to stop performing CPR is when emergency personnel arrive and take over. This is crucial because trained medical professionals have the expertise, equipment, and resources to provide advanced care that goes beyond basic CPR. When they arrive, they can assess the victim thoroughly, offer medications, and perform other necessary interventions that a lay rescuer may not be equipped to handle.

Stopping CPR when the rescuer loses their breath is not advisable, as there are ways to continue compressions or assist breathing without stopping resuscitative efforts entirely. Additionally, ceasing CPR when the victim starts to breathe is also not the correct approach, as the individual should be checked for responsiveness and a stable breathing pattern before stopping. Waiting for a minimum of 5 minutes without any signs of life before making the decision to stop is not recommended either, as it is essential to act swiftly based on the circumstances rather than adhering to a time constraint.

Thus, the intervention by emergency services is the definitive point at which you can transition care and ensure that the victim receives the best possible treatment moving forward.