What is the recommended compression-to-ventilation ratio in adult CPR?

The recommended compression-to-ventilation ratio in adult CPR is 30:2. This ratio is established to optimize the chances of survival and improve outcomes in a cardiac arrest situation. When performing CPR, the focus is on maintaining effective blood flow to the vital organs, and high-quality chest compressions are critical in achieving this. The 30:2 ratio allows for a rapid succession of chest compressions—30 compressions followed by 2 rescue breaths—which helps to keep the heart pumping and maintains circulation while also ensuring that the victim receives oxygen.

Using this ratio strikes a balance between providing adequate ventilation and maintaining necessary circulatory support, which is crucial for maximizing the effectiveness of CPR. The guideline is designed for situations where a single rescuer is administering CPR. When the rescuer changes to a 15:2 ratio, this is recommended for pediatric patients or in situations involving two rescuers but is not utilized for adults. The other provided ratios do not align with the current CPR guidelines established by organizations such as the American Heart Association, which specifically promotes the 30:2 ratio for adult CPR in its recommendations.