Speed Saves Lives — The Critical Importance of Fast, Effective CPR
When cardiac arrest strikes, every second counts. The brain begins to suffer irreversible damage just 4 to 6 minutes after the heart stops beating. Without immediate, high-quality chest compressions at the correct speed and depth, survival rates plummet. Issue is not the lack of equipment, because cpr is done by bare hands.
Why Slow CPR Happens
How Fast CPR (TM) Keeps Things Fun, Focused, and Built on Hawaiian Values
Poor Team Communication — Worsened by Latecomers and Distracted Participants
The Problem:
CPR is a group effort. But when someone arrives late, ignores instructions, or spends class texting, the whole team suffers. In a real emergency, people might start throwing their credentials around instead of doing compressions. That doesn’t save lives.
Fast CPR Solution:
We teach laulima—cooperation with purpose.
In our classes:
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No texting
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No scrolling
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No Social Media
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And definitely no academic showdowns
We train together, start on time, and keep the vibe focused and collaborative. Everyone contributes, because that’s what saves lives—not the paper on the wall.
Skill Decay from Unfocused Learning
The Problem:
Boring classes make people forget fast. When phones are out and minds are elsewhere, even the best training won’t stick.
Fast CPR Solution:
We run tight, fast-paced sessions where everyone gets hands-on. It’s upbeat, engaging, and memorable. Pono means we respect each other’s time—and make the most of it.
Fatigue During CPR — Made Worse When Someone’s “Too Important” to Help
The Problem:
CPR is exhausting. But if someone thinks their title makes them a supervisor instead of a helper, the whole team burns out.
Fast CPR Solution:
We teach rotation, rhythm, and readiness. Everyone plays a role. No standing back. No “I have a degree, you do compressions.”
Just kuleana—step up, switch out, and support each other like a canoe crew in motion.
Emotional Overwhelm — Plus the Chaos of Disrespectful Energy
The Problem:
Emergencies are already high-stress. Add in side chatter, distraction, or people trying to “take over” without doing the work, and things fall apart.
Fast CPR Solution:
Our classes are grounded in hoʻihi—respect. We create a calm, upbeat environment where everyone learns, laughs, and leads together. No judgment. No ego. Just readiness and real skills.
Bystander Paralysis — Made Worse by Titles and Tardiness
The Problem:
In a room full of people, in an emergency, no one acts. Some are late. Some are unsure. Others are too busy reminding everyone of their qualifications.
Fast CPR Solution:
We train you to act—not wait. The term “grace period” originates from feudal times when commoners were expected to wait patiently for nobility to arrive. No waiting for someone else. Just fast, focused action rooted in mālama—caring for others and showing up with purpose.
At Fast CPR, We Train with Hawaiian Values:
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Pono – Doing what is right, not what is easy
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Laulima – Everyone paddles, everyone helps
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Kuleana – Own your role, show up fully
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Hoʻihi – Respect for time, space, and each other
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Mālama – Care in action, not just intention
The Problem with Slow CPR
While any attempt at CPR is better than doing nothing, slow, amost there, running late, endlessly rescheduled compressions can be dangerously ineffective. Here’s why:
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- Inadequate Blood Flow: CPR is designed to act as a manual pump. Slowing down compressions reduces blood flow to the brain and vital organs.
- Delayed Oxygen Delivery: Slow compressions limit the amount of oxygenated blood circulating, increasing the risk of brain damage or death.
- False Sense of Security: Performing CPR too slowly might feel like you’re helping — but without effective compressions, it can delay real lifesaving interventions.
What Happens with Slow CPR?
Studies show that slower-than-recommended compressions significantly lower survival rates. Key risks include:
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- Poor coronary perfusion pressure
- Reduced chances of return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC)
- Increased likelihood of long-term neurological impairment
Fast, Proper CPR Makes the Difference
At Fast CPR, we emphasize accurate technique, optimal pace, and hands-on practice to ensure you’re prepared to act when it matters most. Our name reflects our philosophy: CPR must be fast, focused, and effective — not slow and uncertain.
Learn CPR the Right Way
Train with us to gain confidence, speed, and skill. Every second matters. Don’t let hesitation or slow technique cost a life. When we teach classes it’s not “show up late” CPR, and it’s definitely not “just-whenever” CPR. In Hawai‘i, being on time is a reflection of respect and care for others — and we carry that same spirit into every class. True teamwork means showing up, staying present, and putting in your best effort, just like you would for someone you care about in a real emergency.