New CPR Guidelines Released - First Full Update Since 2020

October 2025

 

The American Heart Association has published the first comprehensive update to its Guidelines for Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and Emergency Cardiovascular Care (ECC) since 2020.

For over 50 years, the Association has led the way in setting the gold standard for CPR, first aid, and advanced cardiovascular care.

These updated recommendations are closely aligned with the International Liaison Committee on Resuscitation (ILCOR) and its member councils, reflecting the latest global consensus in resuscitation science. The Heart Association is a founding member of ILCOR and continues to play a key role in shaping international best practices.

In a joint effort to protect young hearts, the American Heart Association and the American Academy of Pediatrics have also co-developed pediatric-specific guidelines(link opens in new window) (link opens in new window)(link opens in new window), released in tandem with the broader update.

Since the first CPR Guidelines were published in 1966, the Heart Association has maintained a rigorous, evidence-based process for reviewing and updating its recommendations. This continuous evaluation model allows for timely integration of new research and advancements in care.