In adult CPR, how many compressions should be performed before giving breaths?

In adult CPR, the guideline is to perform 30 compressions followed by 2 breaths. This ratio is established to maintain effective blood circulation and oxygenation during cardiac arrest. The primary goal of CPR is to ensure that blood is pumped to vital organs, particularly the brain and heart, while waiting for emergency medical services to arrive or for the individual to show signs of recovery.

The 30:2 compression-to-breath ratio allows for more frequent chest compressions, which are crucial for creating artificial circulation. Compressions should be performed at a rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute, and this high frequency maximizes blood flow while minimizing the interruption caused by ventilation. After 30 compressions, the two rescue breaths are performed to provide oxygen to the lungs, which is essential for preventing brain damage in an unresponsive person.

Understanding this specific sequence is vital for anyone involved in providing first aid or emergency care, as it reflects the most current best practices in CPR for adults.