American Heart Association Releases 2025 CPR Guidelines to Enhance Global Cardiac Arrest Survival

The American Heart Association (AHA) has released updated 2025 Guidelines for Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and Emergency Cardiovascular Care, emphasizing high-quality chest compressions, early defibrillation, and specialized post-cardiac arrest care. New recommendations include specific choking protocols for conscious children and adults, alternating five back blows and abdominal thrusts until the airway is cleared or the person becomes unresponsive, with adapted techniques for infants. The guidelines highlight the importance of community CPR training, including teaching CPR to children aged 12 and older, and introduce first public guidance on the use of naloxone for suspected opioid overdoses. Pediatric and neonatal care have been distinctly addressed, reflecting their unique needs with collaborative input from the American Academy of Pediatrics and AHA experts. The updates are based on rigorous scientific review and aim to improve survival and neurological outcomes through an integrated, system-wide approach involving lay rescuers and healthcare professionals. Overall, the AHA stresses that widespread CPR knowledge and prompt action are crucial to saving lives during cardiac emergencies.