What is the primary goal of CPR in a cardiac arrest situation?

The primary goal of CPR in a cardiac arrest situation is to circulate oxygenated blood to vital organs. This is crucial because, during cardiac arrest, the heart is no longer pumping effectively, resulting in the cessation of blood flow to the brain and other critical organs. Without immediate intervention, this lack of blood flow can lead to irreversible damage and death within minutes.

Performing high-quality chest compressions during CPR helps to manually generate blood circulation, delivering oxygen to the brain and heart. This improves the chances of survival and neurological outcome. While restoring breathing is important as well, the immediate priority lies in ensuring that blood continues to flow to essential organs until advanced medical help arrives or the heart is successfully restarted.