What should you do if you are tired while performing CPR?

When performing CPR, it is crucial to continue the process until Emergency Medical Services (EMS) arrives or the person shows signs of life. This is because the primary goal of CPR is to maintain blood circulation and oxygenation to vital organs, particularly the brain and heart, until professional help can take over or the individual shows recovery signs. If you stop CPR prematurely due to fatigue, it can result in irreversible damage or death, as the heart may remain in a state of arrhythmia or lack of rhythm during that critical time.

Continuing CPR ensures that you are doing everything possible to save a life. While switching responsibilities can be beneficial when another trained individual arrives, the emphasis should remain on uninterrupted CPR until professional responders are on the scene or until the person regains consciousness and begins to breathe normally. Taking unnecessary breaks or stopping for rest directly contradicts the life-saving intent of CPR.