What is the appropriate compression-to-breath ratio for adults during CPR?

The appropriate compression-to-breath ratio for adults during CPR is 30:2. This ratio is based on guidelines from organizations such as the American Heart Association, which recommend a total of 30 chest compressions followed by 2 rescue breaths. This cycle continues until advanced medical help arrives or the person shows signs of life. The 30:2 ratio emphasizes the importance of maintaining high-quality chest compressions, which are crucial for circulating blood and maintaining oxygenation during cardiac arrest.

In adult CPR, compressions should be performed at a rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute, ensuring that compressions are deep enough (2 inches) and allowing full chest recoil between compressions. The breaths should be provided after every 30 compressions to help restore the oxygen levels in the bloodstream, which is particularly essential in cases of cardiac arrest where the heart is not pumping effectively. This methodology strikes a balance between providing adequate circulatory support through compressions while also addressing the oxygenation needs of the patient through rescue breaths.