What is the recommended rate of chest compressions during CPR?

The recommended rate of chest compressions during CPR is 100 to 120 compressions per minute. This rate has been established because research indicates that this frequency is optimal for maintaining coronary and cerebral perfusion during cardiac arrest.

At this compression rate, the blood flow delivered to vital organs is maximized, which is crucial in increasing the chances of survival and minimizing potential brain damage. Compressing too slowly, as suggested by the lower ranges, may not generate sufficient blood flow to sustain perfusion, thereby compromising the effectiveness of resuscitation efforts. Conversely, compressing at rates significantly higher than the recommended range can lead to decreased effectiveness, as it might induce interruptions in the compressions and reduce the quality of each compression.

The specific range of 100 to 120 compressions per minute promotes a balance that is both vigorous enough to ensure adequate perfusion while remaining sustainable for the rescuer, thereby enhancing the overall quality of CPR.