Purpose: This study was done to identify the level of knowledge and competence of nurses with regard to cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Methods: The participants were 360 nurses who worked in 3 general hospitals affiliated with universities in K-province. The study was done in May and June, 2005. Analysis was done using SPSS 12.0 and descriptive statistics, t test, ANOVA, Pearson’s correlation coefficients, and multiple regression were used to analyze the data. Results: The results showed that nurses’knowledge and competence levels vary. Mean scores for knowledge were 19.64. Using a score of 1, the mean was 0.65. Mean scores for competence were 96.29. Using a score of 5, the mean was 3.57. Correlation between total knowledge and total competence was r=.49 (p=.00). Conclusion: Lack of knowledge and low competence in nurses should be addressed in cardiopulmonary resuscitation education programs. For more effective education, the type of education should not be limited to lectures only, but should include both lectures and practice. As knowledge and competence were affected by work experience, it is important to provide nurses not only with knowledge but with work experience to increase levels of knowledge and competence in cardiopulmonary resuscitation.