What is the recommended compression to ventilation ratio for CPR?

The recommended compression to ventilation ratio for CPR, which is 30 compressions to 2 ventilations, aligns with current guidelines for adult cardiac arrest. This ratio is critical because it emphasizes the importance of high-quality chest compressions in maintaining circulation and blood flow to vital organs during the critical moments of a cardiac event. High-quality compressions should be performed at a rate of 100 to 120 per minute, with full chest recoil between compressions, and the ventilation should be provided after every 30 compressions to help ensure that oxygen is delivered to the lungs.

This approach provides a balance that helps maximize the effectiveness of CPR—ensuring that oxygenated blood is circulated while minimizing interruptions in compressions, which can decrease the overall effectiveness of resuscitation efforts. Maintaining this specific ratio is essential in creating a standard practice that first responders and healthcare providers can consistently use, thereby improving patient outcomes in cardiac arrest situations.