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Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is specifically indicated for individuals who are in cardiac arrest. Cardiac arrest occurs when the heart stops beating effectively, leading to a cessation of blood flow to vital organs. This life-threatening condition requires immediate action, and performing CPR helps to maintain circulation by manually compressing the heart, which can be critical in preventing brain damage and increasing the chances of survival until advanced medical help arrives.

While there are various emergency situations that may require different interventions, such as the Heimlich maneuver for a choking victim or providing rescue breaths for someone having difficulty breathing, these scenarios do not necessitate CPR unless the individual becomes unresponsive and shows no signs of life. For victims who respond to painful stimuli or are conscious, CPR is not appropriate, as these individuals either have some level of circulation or require different first aid techniques.