While performing CPR, also known as cardiopulmonary resuscitation, it is important to keep up an accurate tempo. In the case of an emergency, there are a number of songs that can help you to know just how fast to give chest compressions to save someone’s life.
But First, What is CPR?
When someone experiences cardiac arrest, or a heart attack, blood stops flowing to the heart, causing the heart to stop beating. In other words, an “electrical problem” of the heart has occurred and it is no longer functioning normally.
CPR is an emergency technique used to increase the chance of survival of someone whose heart has stopped beating. CPR can also be used to save someone who has stopped breathing due to choking or drowning. The faster that CPR is initiated, the more likely the individual is to survive. Once CPR is initiated, it is best to continue until emergency medical services (EMS) arrive.
While there is an official CPR training and certification to help you perfect your technique in case of an emergency, anyone can learn hands-only CPR in just a few minutes. Knowing the correct steps could save someone’s life.
What Songs Have the Right Tempo for CPR?
Maintaining an accurate tempo is crucial for performing effective CPR. One helpful trick is to recall a song with the same beat to keep your compressions on pace—about 100 beats per minute. While many associate CPR with Stayin’ Alive by the Bee Gees, there are plenty of other songs with the same rhythm that work just as well. Choosing a familiar tune can make it easier to stay on track and deliver life-saving compressions consistently.
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- “Achy Breaky Heart” by Billy Ray Cyrus
- “MMMbop” by Hanson
- “Another One Bites the Dust” by Queen
- “Dancing Queen” by ABBA
- “I Will Survive” by Gloria Gaynor
- “Don’t Stop Believin’” by Journey
- “Eye of the Tiger” by Survivor
- “Uptown Funk” by Mark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars
- “Just Dance” by Lady Gaga ft. Colby O’Donis
- “The Man” by Taylor Swift
- “Flowers” by Miley Cyrus
- “Dance the Night” by Dua Lipa
- “Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough” by Michael Jackson
Check out our Songs For Saving Lives playlist on YouTube:
While it may be somewhat comical to think of saving someone’s life with some of these songs, it is important to keep a few of these songs in mind in case you ever find yourself providing CPR. In an emergency, your favorite tune could become a life-saving rhythm, giving new meaning to the music you love.
UofL Health is committed to the prevention of disease and the care of your heart. UofL Health – Heart Hospital is the only area hospital dedicated to comprehensive heart care. To learn more, call 502-587-4000.
More CPR resources are available from the American Heart Association.
In case of an emergency, dial 911.
