aha guidelines

The American Heart Association (AHA) published its 2025 Guidelines for Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and Emergency Cardiovascular Care (ECC), marking a major advance in life-saving science. Researchers based these updates on robust evidence, and the guidelines now form the foundation of CPR and ECC training worldwide. These changes go beyond a simple update; they aim to increase survival rates and enhance outcomes for those facing cardiac or respiratory emergencies.

In this overview, we will discuss the main updates to the guidelines, the new course materials being introduced, how instructors will transition, and the wider impact of the AHA’s innovative work in resuscitation science.

The AHA updates its guidelines every five years to match the latest research. For 2025, the updates come from a collaboration with the International Liaison Committee on Resuscitation (ILCOR) and independent evaluations by the AHA. The changes focus on practical methods to improve resuscitation quality and make training more effective.

Key updates include:

  • Revised recommendations for CPR techniques to boost effectiveness in real-life situations.
  • Enhanced guidelines for pediatric and neonatal resuscitation, developed in collaboration with the American Academy of Pediatrics.
  • New insights into advanced cardiovascular life-saving interventions, tailored for healthcare professionals working in high-stakes environments.

These refinements show that the AHA continues to lead resuscitation science, setting the standard for education and care in both healthcare and community settings.

The 2025 guidelines bring updated training materials and courses to equip both healthcare professionals and lay rescuers with the tools they need. When paired with updated methods, these resources can make resuscitation training more accessible and impactful.

Here’s what’s being introduced:

  • Self Guided AHA and HeartCode® programs: These flagship AHA offerings are designed for healthcare professionals seeking to maintain and improve their skills in a flexible, technology-driven format.
  • Core CPR and ECC Courses: Revised materials will be available for Basic Life Support (BLS), Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS), Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), and the Heartsaver® First Aid CPR AED training programs.
  • Instructor Essentials Courses: Slated for release in early 2026, these courses will train instructors in the latest teaching strategies for all core disciplines, ensuring uniformity in knowledge delivery.

For those getting ready for the revised courses, materials such as the “2025 AHA Guidelines Science Reprint” and “Highlights of the 2025 AHA Guidelines” give quick access to the key updates. In addition, the AHA will offer optional eLearning options like the “2025 AHA Guidelines Science In-Service,” designed for non-instructor healthcare professionals.

The new guidelines require a transition for AHA’s 400,000 instructors around the world. To keep things consistent, the AHA has set a clear 90-day timeline to adopt the updated materials.

  • By March 1, 2026, all Training Centers and instructors must start using the updated course materials.
  • To prepare, instructors will need to complete mandatory Instructor Update courses for every discipline they teach (e.g., BLS, ACLS, PALS). These updates will be available soon after the October 22, 2025, release of the guidelines.

This structured transition lets instructors and Training Centers adapt to the changes with minimal disruption to training schedules. The AHA commits to supporting its instructors, helping them stay at the forefront of resuscitation science education.

An Instructor Update must be completed for each discipline taught. For example, AHA BLS Instructors must complete the 2025 BLS Instructor Update, and those BLS Instructors who teach Heartsaver courses must also complete the 2025 Heartsaver Instructor Update. For PALS Instructors who teach PEARS, completion of the 2025 PEARS Instructor Update is recommended, but not required.

The AHA stands as the largest CPR and ECC training organization in the US and a global leader in resuscitation science and education. It is uniquely positioned as the only American group directly involved in creating adult resuscitation guidelines, and its work sets the standard for training providers around the world.

Collaboration drives the AHA’s success. By working with ILCOR and the American Academy of Pediatrics, the AHA turns the latest scientific advances into practical recommendations. These partnerships ensure every update is rooted in solid research and real-world usefulness.

Moreover, the AHA reaches 92 countries and serves more than 3,500 Training Centers. This broad presence reinforces its role as the most experienced provider of resuscitation education. That expertise underpins the association’s mission to save lives, one training course at a time.

The 2025 updates aren’t just theoretical; they affect real life. People’s lives hinge on delivering high-quality CPR during emergencies, especially when immediate medical help isn’t nearby.

  • Heartsaver® lay-rescuer training programs now empower individuals to step in and help during emergencies at home, at work, and in the community.
  • Hospital-based professionals receive updated guidance to ensure timely, evidence-based care for even the most critical cardiac cases.

These updates emphasize continuous learning in healthcare and boost the confidence of those who must save lives in critical moments.

The 2025 guidelines reshape CPR and ECC by combining proven science with innovative training methods. This framework helps instructors, healthcare professionals, and everyday citizens better prepare for life-threatening emergencies.

Although the changes require some adjustment, the benefits are substantial. Under the AHA’s leadership, the global standard for resuscitation training continues to rise, supporting safer communities, improved outcomes, and more lives saved.

The AHA will keep sharing updates on the new guidelines throughout 2025, ensuring everyone involved in teaching and practicing CPR and ECC stays informed. By staying proactive, instructors and participants can maximize the value of these updates.

For more information, visit the AHA’s Resuscitation Science webpage. It offers transition details, Instructor Update schedules, and science highlights.

The changes in the AHA guidelines go beyond policy-they reflect a commitment to improving survival rates and extending life-saving skills to people worldwide. Whether you’re an instructor, a medical professional, or a concerned citizen, these updates equip you to make a difference when it matters most.

Same Day CPR stands out as a trusted provider of AHA-certified courses, including BLS, ACLS, and PALS. With locations in Maryland, Delaware, Virginia, New Jersey, North Carolina, District of Columbia, New York, Pennsylvania, Missouri, we offer convenient schedules and a commitment to high-quality training. This makes it easy for you to gain or renew certifications. By joining programs like these, you’ll be equipped with the latest knowledge and skills to save lives when every second counts. Stay informed, adapt to changes, and support the AHA’s mission to save lives through science and education. Find our location to get started.

Reference (PDF): 2025 AHA CPR and ECC Guidelines