Outline the step-by-step procedure for performing CPR on an adult.

Performing Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) on an adult involves a step-by-step procedure designed to maintain blood circulation and oxygenation in the absence of spontaneous breathing or a pulse. Here is an outline of the recommended steps for performing CPR on an adult:

1. Assess the Situation:
- Ensure the safety of the environment before approaching the victim.
- Check for any potential hazards or dangers that could compromise your safety.

2. Check Responsiveness:
- Gently tap the victim and shout loudly to assess their responsiveness.
- If there is no response, the victim is unresponsive and immediate action is required.

3. Activate Emergency Medical Services (EMS):
- Call for emergency medical help by dialing the local emergency number (e.g., 911).
- If someone is nearby, instruct them to activate EMS while you proceed with the initial assessment and interventions.

4. Check for Normal Breathing:
- Position yourself close to the victim's head.
- Look for signs of normal breathing, such as chest rise and fall.
- If the victim is not breathing or breathing abnormally, move on to the next steps.

5. Open the Airway:
- Tilt the victim's head backward while lifting the chin to open the airway.
- Check for any obstructions, and remove them if visible.

6. Check for Breathing Again:
- Look, listen, and feel for breathing for no more than 10 seconds.
- If the victim is still not breathing or breathing inadequately, proceed to CPR.

7. Initiate Chest Compressions:
- Position yourself directly over the victim's chest.
- Place the heel of one hand on the center of the chest, just below the nipple line.
- Place the other hand on top of the first, interlocking the fingers.
- Keep your elbows straight, shoulders directly over your hands, and your body weight centered over the victim.
- Perform chest compressions at a rate of at least 100-120 compressions per minute.
- Allow the chest to fully recoil between compressions.

8. Provide Rescue Breaths:
- After 30 compressions, give two rescue breaths.
- Maintain an open airway using the head-tilt/chin-lift maneuver.
- Deliver each breath over about one second, watching for chest rise.

9. Continue CPR Cycles:
- Continue cycles of 30 chest compressions followed by two rescue breaths.
- Minimize interruptions in compressions to maintain adequate blood flow.

10. Use an Automated External Defibrillator (AED):
- If an AED is available, turn it on and follow its prompts.
- Apply the AED pads to the victim's chest as instructed.
- Continue CPR as directed by the AED until emergency medical personnel arrive.

11. Continue Until Help Arrives:
- Continue CPR until emergency medical personnel arrive, the victim shows signs of life, or you are too exhausted to continue.
- Be prepared to follow the instructions of emergency responders when they arrive.

It's essential to note that high-quality CPR, emphasizing adequate chest compressions and minimizing interruptions, significantly increases the chances of survival for a victim in cardiac arrest. Training in CPR, including hands-on practice, is crucial for individuals who may find themselves in a position to respond to a cardiac emergency.