When performing CPR, what is the correct chest compression-to-breath ratio for adults?

The correct chest compression-to-breath ratio for adults when performing CPR is 30 to 2. This means that for every 30 chest compressions given, the rescuer should deliver 2 rescue breaths. This ratio is based on guidelines established by organizations such as the American Heart Association, which emphasize that effective CPR compressions, combined with rescue breaths, improve the chances of survival during a cardiac arrest.

The reason this specific ratio is used is to ensure that adequate blood flow is maintained through compressions while also providing oxygen to the lungs through rescue breaths. Following this ratio helps to maintain a balance between the quality of chest compressions and the delivery of breaths, ultimately leading to better outcomes for the patient.

In general, guidelines for CPR emphasize the importance of continuous compressions at a rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute, with a focus on minimizing interruptions to maintain blood flow. The 30 to 2 ratio is designed to optimize the effectiveness of both compressions and ventilation during cardiac arrest scenarios.