How often should you switch compressors to minimize fatigue in CPR?

Switching compressors every 2 minutes during CPR is ideal for maintaining high-quality chest compressions. This is important because performing chest compressions can be physically demanding and lead to fatigue, which compromises the effectiveness of CPR. After about 2 minutes of continuous compressions, a rescuer may begin to experience fatigue, leading to decreased compression depth and rate, and possibly an increased likelihood of inadequate ventilation if rescue breaths are also being given.

By rotating compressors every 2 minutes, the rescuers ensure that the person providing compressions remains effective, maintaining the necessary rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute while allowing for minimal interruption to the flow of CPR. This time frame also aligns with the recommended guidelines from the American Heart Association, which emphasize maintaining high-quality CPR to improve the chances of survival and positive outcomes for cardia arrest victims.