You should check for normal breathing for no more than about 10 seconds before starting CPR.

Key point

  • First-aid and CPR guidelines say to open the airway and look, listen and feel for breathing for up to 10 seconds only.
  • Spending longer than this can dangerously delay chest compressions if the person is in cardiac arrest.
  • If you do not see normal breathing (or only gasping) within about 10 seconds, start CPR and have emergency services called immediately.

Simple step-by-step

  1. Make sure the scene is safe and call for help or have someone phone emergency services.
  1. Gently tap and shout to check responsiveness while you quickly notice breathing.
  1. Open the airway (tilt head back, lift chin) and look, listen, feel for breathing for up to 10 seconds.
  1.  * If breathing normally: keep monitoring and place in the recovery position if unresponsive.

 * If not breathing normally or only gasping: start chest compressions and follow CPR guidelines.

If you are ever unsure, treat it as not breathing normally and start CPR while emergency help is on the way.

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Wondering how long should you check for breathing before starting CPR? Current first-aid guidance says to assess breathing for no more than 10 seconds using look, listen, and feel, then act fast if breathing is not normal.

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