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Legal Aspects of CPR

For more than 30 years, the American Heart Association has backed cardiopulmonary resuscitation, or CPR, training of the general public. Laws are in place to support those who want to perform CPR. For this reason, lay people can perform CPR without fear of reprisal.

  1. Good Samaritan Law

    • People are considered Good Samaritans when they aid another during a cardiac arrest or severe respiratory problems. Good Samaritan laws protect people who perform CPR in good faith, which is, having a strong desire to assist another without thought of compensation. All states have Good Samaritan laws.

    Patient Self-Determination Act

    • The Patient Self-Determination Act backs "Do Not Attempt Resuscitation," or DNAR programs. These programs support those who do not want assistance during life-threatening situations. No one can perform CPR on those who do not want resuscitation.

    Jewerly and Cards

    • Rescuers must check for DNAR and "no-CPR" jewelry or cards before performing CPR. If these items are found, the rescuer must refrain from performing CPR.

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