What are some common barriers to performing CPR?

The concern over fear of causing harm or using incorrect technique is a significant barrier to performing CPR. Many people have a hesitancy to intervene in an emergency situation due to worries about making the situation worse, potentially harming the victim, or not performing the procedure correctly. This fear can paralyze bystanders and prevent them from providing the life-saving aid that is often crucial in those moments.

Research shows that bystanders are more likely to perform CPR if they have received training and feel confident about their ability to apply it. However, even those who know how to perform CPR might still hesitate due to anxiety about the responsibility and the fear of adverse outcomes. Overcoming this fear, often through community training programs, public awareness campaigns, and promoting the understanding that performing CPR—even if imperfectly—is far better than not acting at all, can significantly increase the likelihood that individuals will step in when someone needs help.