How often should chest compressions be performed during CPR?

Chest compressions during CPR should be performed at a rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute. This rate is supported by guidelines from reputable cardiopulmonary resuscitation organizations, which emphasize the importance of maintaining a high-quality compression rate to optimize blood circulation and improve the chances of survival in a cardiac arrest scenario.

The rationale behind this specific range is that it strikes a balance between providing adequate chest recoil, which is vital for allowing the heart to refill with blood, and ensuring that sufficient compressions are delivered within a minute to maintain blood flow to vital organs. The evidence supports that compressions at this frequency are more effective in generating a higher rate of return of spontaneous circulation compared to slower rates, which can result in inadequate perfusion.

Maintaining compressions within this range helps to maximize the effectiveness of CPR and aligns with the current training and recommendations provided to healthcare providers.