The Fascinating History of CPR

When someone collapses from cardiac arrest, every second counts. But have you ever wondered how far back life-saving resuscitation techniques go? The story of CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) is one of constant innovation—and it’s still evolving today. Would you have survived if you needed CPR in the past? Let’s take a look at how this crucial skill has developed over thousands of years.

1000 BCE – Ancient Egypt

Mouth-to-Mouth Resuscitation

The earliest recorded attempts at resuscitation come from Ancient Egypt, where mouth-to-mouth was used to revive drowning victims. It was a simple idea: breathe life back into someone who’d stopped breathing. This marked the first step in restoring breathing and paved the way for future techniques.

1660 – Netherlands

Bellows for Breathing

Fast forward to 17th-century Amsterdam, where surgeons turned to bellows—a device more commonly found in fireplaces—to force air into the lungs of drowning victims. It was one of the first examples of artificial ventilation, showing just how creative early lifesavers could be.

1960s – USA

Modern Mouth-to-Mouth & Chest Compressions

The CPR we recognise today began in the 1960s, thanks to Dr Peter Safar and Dr James Elam. They introduced mouth-to-mouth resuscitation alongside chest compressions, forming the foundation for modern CPR. The American Heart Association soon formalised the ‘ABC’ approach: Airway, Breathing, Circulation. This method transformed emergency response and dramatically improved survival rates.

1990s – Switzerland

Introduction of AEDs (Automated External Defibrillators)

In the late 1980s, Switzerland saw the introduction of the AED—a device that diagnoses and treats dangerous heart rhythms with a safe electric shock. By the 1990s, AEDs became available to the public, making it possible for everyday people to save lives. Survival rates from cardiac arrest soared thanks to these portable, user-friendly devices.

2006 – Australia

Standardised 30:2 CPR Ratio

The Australian Resuscitation Council (ARC) made CPR even more effective by introducing the 30 compressions to 2 breaths (30:2) ratio. This simplified technique became the gold standard for adults, children, and infants, helping more Australians respond confidently in emergencies.

Today – Global

CPR & AED Access for All

Now, CPR and AED training is widespread—schools, workplaces, and public spaces across Australia and the world are equipped with AEDs. Anyone can step in and make a difference, turning bystanders into lifesavers.

CPR Keeps Advancing—So Do We

From ancient Egypt to modern Australia, CPR has come a long way. At Optimum Training, we’re proud to be part of this ongoing journey, delivering up-to-date, practical training that empowers you to act when it matters most.

Would you have survived? With today’s knowledge and tools, you—and those around you—have the best chance yet.

Stay prepared. Stay Trained.

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