What is the correct chest compression ratio for CPR?

The chest compression ratio for CPR is 30:2, which means that 30 chest compressions should be performed followed by 2 rescue breaths. This guideline is recommended for both adults and children during cardiopulmonary resuscitation. The reason this specific ratio is important is that it has been shown to provide an effective balance between maintaining blood circulation through compressions and delivering oxygen through rescue breaths, maximizing the chances of survival until advanced medical help arrives.

The 30:2 ratio is particularly effective because the rapid compressions help to quickly circulate blood, which is critical in cases of cardiac arrest. The inclusion of 2 breaths helps to ensure some level of oxygenation, which is necessary for the brain and vital organs. The American Heart Association guidelines emphasize this ratio for its efficiency in both training scenarios and real-life applications, making it a fundamental part of CPR training.