What is the recommended compression-to-breath ratio in CPR?

What is the recommended compression-to-breath ratio in CPR?

• A. 15:2
• B. 20:2
• C. 30:2
• D. 40:2

Answer: (C)

During CPR, the rhythm between compressions and breaths matters because it balances circulating blood with delivering oxygen. For adults, the standard is to perform 30 chest compressions and then give 2 rescue breaths, repeating this cycle. This 30:2 pattern maintains coronary and cerebral perfusion while providing enough ventilation, and it minimizes pauses so blood flow isn’t interrupted too long. If two rescuers are performing CPR on adults, the same 30:2 ratio is typically used; for children and infants with two rescuers, the pattern often shifts to 15:2 to prioritize ventilation more frequently. Breaths should be delivered over about one second each with visible chest rise.

During CPR, the rhythm between compressions and breaths matters because it balances circulating blood with delivering oxygen. For adults, the standard is to perform 30 chest compressions and then give 2 rescue breaths, repeating this cycle. This 30:2 pattern maintains coronary and cerebral perfusion while providing enough ventilation, and it minimizes pauses so blood flow isn’t interrupted too long. If two rescuers are performing CPR on adults, the same 30:2 ratio is typically used; for children and infants with two rescuers, the pattern often shifts to 15:2 to prioritize ventilation more frequently. Breaths should be delivered over about one second each with visible chest rise.