At what rate are chest compressions performed?

At what rate are chest compressions performed?

• A. 60-80/min
• B. 80-100/min
• C. 100-120/min
• D. 120-140/min

Answer: (C)

Effective CPR relies on keeping a steady, appropriate pace for chest compressions to maximize blood flow and perfusion to the heart and brain. The recommended rate is about 100 to 120 compressions per minute, which is roughly two compressions per second at the upper end. This pace balances delivering enough circulatory force with enough time for the chest to recoil between compressions, allowing the heart to fill again and maintaining coronary and cerebral perfusion. Rates slower than this reduce perfusion, while rates faster than this can compromise depth and full chest recoil, making each compression less effective.

Effective CPR relies on keeping a steady, appropriate pace for chest compressions to maximize blood flow and perfusion to the heart and brain. The recommended rate is about 100 to 120 compressions per minute, which is roughly two compressions per second at the upper end. This pace balances delivering enough circulatory force with enough time for the chest to recoil between compressions, allowing the heart to fill again and maintaining coronary and cerebral perfusion. Rates slower than this reduce perfusion, while rates faster than this can compromise depth and full chest recoil, making each compression less effective.