The Resuscitation Council UK (RCUK) has published updated guidelines for cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and the use of automated external defibrillators (AEDs), reflecting the latest international scientific consensus from the European Resuscitation Council (ERC) and the International Liaison Committee on Resuscitation (ILCOR).

Key Changes to Adult CPR

The updated guidelines confirm the established 30:2 compression-to-ventilation ratio for trained first aiders performing CPR with rescue breaths. However, several important clarifications have been made:

  • Compression depth: Confirmed at 5–6 cm for adults — no change, but emphasis on avoiding excessive depth (>6 cm) which can cause rib fractures
  • Compression rate: 100–120 compressions per minute — metronome apps recommended for training
  • Hands-only CPR: Strongly recommended for bystanders who are untrained or unwilling to give rescue breaths
  • AED use: Should be applied as soon as available — do not delay CPR to retrieve an AED
30,000 Out-of-hospital cardiac arrests occur in the UK each year — survival rates improve dramatically with immediate CPR

Changes to Paediatric Guidelines

For children (aged 1 year to puberty), the guidelines now emphasise that rescuers should give 5 initial rescue breaths before beginning chest compressions, reflecting the importance of oxygenation in paediatric cardiac arrest. The compression-to-ventilation ratio remains 15:2 for healthcare providers and 30:2 for lay rescuers.

AED Guidance Updates

The updated guidance confirms that AEDs are safe and effective for use in children aged 1 year and above. Paediatric pads or a paediatric mode should be used where available, but adult pads can be used if paediatric pads are not available — this is preferable to not using the AED at all.

"Every minute without CPR reduces the chance of survival by 10%. Bystander CPR can double or triple survival rates from out-of-hospital cardiac arrest." — Resuscitation Council UK

First Aid Trainer Courses

Qualify to deliver accredited first aid training with our HSE-compliant First Aid at Work Trainer and Emergency First Aid Trainer courses.

View Courses →

Implications for First Aid Training

First aid trainers and training organisations should review their course materials to ensure they reflect the updated RCUK guidelines. The HSE requires that first aid training provided under the Health and Safety (First Aid) Regulations 1981 is consistent with current resuscitation guidance. Organisations that have not updated their training materials since the previous guidelines should do so promptly.