How often should chest compressions be given in CPR?

In cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), chest compressions are vital for maintaining blood circulation during a cardiac arrest. The correct rate of 100-120 compressions per minute aligns with guidelines established by the American Heart Association. This rate is optimal to ensure that blood is adequately circulated to the vital organs, especially the heart and brain, increasing the chances of survival until further medical assistance can be delivered.

The rationale behind this specific range is based on research indicating that higher rates of compressions improve the likelihood of returning spontaneous circulation. This frequency helps to create enough pressure in the chest cavity to effectively push blood out of the heart and into the rest of the body.

Lower rates, such as 60 or 80 compressions per minute, do not provide sufficient blood flow and could lead to inadequate perfusion of the organs. While a rate of 140 may seem vigorous, it can lead to ineffective compressions and insufficient time for the heart to refill with blood between compressions, thus reducing the effectiveness of CPR. Therefore, a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute is established as the standard for effective chest compressions during CPR.