When should CPR be continued on a casualty?

CPR should be continued on a casualty until they start breathing normally. The primary goal of CPR is to restore effective circulation and breathing when a person's heart has stopped or they are unresponsive. Effective chest compressions and rescue breaths help maintain blood flow to vital organs and ensure they receive oxygen. Normal breathing is a clear sign that the heart is beginning to function again, indicating that the casualty's condition is improving and that further resuscitation efforts are no longer needed at that point.

The focus is on ensuring that the individual can sustain themselves independently without requiring artificial circulation and oxygenation. Although other factors, such as a casualty being stable or regaining consciousness, are important in the overall assessment of a person’s condition, the immediate confirmation of normal breathing is a definitive indicator for stopping CPR. Additionally, waiting until the environment is safe before stopping CPR doesn't address the critical need to prioritize the casualty's health and recovery in the moment of crisis.