What is the recommended rate of compressions for adult CPR?

The recommended rate of compressions for adult CPR is between 100 and 120 per minute. This range has been established based on extensive research indicating that compressions administered within this rate have a higher likelihood of maintaining adequate blood flow to the heart and brain during cardiac arrest. This target rate strikes a balance between being effective for circulation while also being manageable for the rescuer, allowing for consistent and sustained compressions without excessive fatigue.

Compounding the importance of this rate is the need for rescuers to perform compressions at a depth of at least 2 inches and to allow complete chest recoil between compressions. Adhering to the 100 to 120 compressions-per-minute guideline ensures that CPR is performed optimally, maximizing the chances of survival and recovery for the victim. This understanding is crucial for anyone trained in CPR, as it emphasizes both the frequency and quality of the compressions provided during such an urgent and life-saving scenario.