If a bystander encourages you to stop CPR, what should your response be?

Continuing CPR until help arrives or until the person shows signs of life is critical because it maximizes the chances of survival for someone in cardiac arrest. The body can suffer irreversible damage within minutes without oxygen, so maintaining blood circulation through chest compressions is essential. If a trained rescuer is performing CPR, they should not stop unless they are relieved by emergency medical professionals or see clear signs of life, such as breathing or movement.

Stopping CPR prematurely can lead to a negative outcome, as every moment without effective blood circulation decreases the person's chance of recovery. Therefore, adhering to the protocol of continuing CPR ensures that you are doing everything possible to keep blood and oxygen flowing until advanced medical support can take over.