When should you stop performing CPR?

The correct response is that CPR should be stopped when the victim shows signs of life or when medical personnel arrive and take over the care.

When a victim begins to show signs of life—such as moving, breathing normally, or opening their eyes—it indicates that their heart is beating again and they are recovering. Resuming normal physiological function is a key point at which you can safely discontinue CPR.

Additionally, once professional medical personnel arrive on the scene, they are trained and equipped to provide advanced care, which means that by handing over the responsibility to them, you are ensuring that the victim receives the appropriate treatment. It is critical for the rescuer to recognize these moments to prevent any further unnecessary interventions once proper medical help is available or the victim has stabilized.

Feeling exhausted is a valid state for a rescuer, but it is not a standalone reason to stop CPR. Rescuers should strive to continue until one of the two aforementioned criteria is met to ensure the best possible outcome for the victim.