FISDAP EMT Readiness Practice Test

The recommended ratio of chest compressions to rescue breaths during CPR for adults is 30:2. This means that for every 30 compressions performed, two rescue breaths should be given. This ratio is designed to maximize the effectiveness of CPR by ensuring that there is a continuous flow of blood to vital organs while still providing necessary ventilation to the patient.

The rationale behind this specific ratio is based on research and guidelines established by resuscitation councils, which emphasize the need for high-quality chest compressions. The compressions help to circulate oxygenated blood to the brain and heart while the breaths provide oxygen to the lungs. By maintaining the 30:2 ratio, rescuers can deliver life-saving compressions efficiently and minimize interruptions in circulation.

In scenarios involving infants and children, or in cases where a trained rescuer is providing CPR to two rescuers, the ratio may differ; for example, the ratio of 15:2 is often used with two rescuers for children. However, for single-rescuer adult CPR, 30:2 is the standard recommendation. The choice of 30:3 may seem plausible but it is not aligned with current guidelines, which specifically recommend the 30:2 ratio for optimal effectiveness in resuscitation efforts