The compression-ventilation ratio for providing CPR for an adult victim is?

Appeared in: Tripura CHO - 2021

Explanation

According to the American Heart Association (AHA) guidelines, the standard compression-to-ventilation ratio for an adult is 30 compressions followed by 2 breaths.
This 30:2 ratio applies whether there is a single rescuer or two rescuers present.
The primary goal is to ensure adequate circulation through high-quality chest compressions, with rescue breaths providing oxygenation.
This universal ratio for adults simplifies training and execution during a high-stress emergency.

Option A: A ratio of 10:2 is not a standard recommended ratio for CPR in any patient population (adult, child, or infant) under current BLS guidelines.
Option B: The 15:2 ratio is specifically for two-rescuer CPR on children and infants, not adults. The question specifies an adult victim.
Option C: A ratio of 20:2 is not a standard recommended ratio for CPR in any patient population under current BLS guidelines.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) compression-to-ventilation ratio for adults as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Performing high-quality CPR with the correct compression-to-ventilation ratio is a fundamental nursing skill that directly impacts patient survival and neurological outcomes after cardiac arrest.
Minimizing interruptions in chest compressions is critical. Pauses for ventilation should be as brief as possible, ideally less than 10 seconds.
What if? If the patient has an advanced airway (like an endotracheal tube or supraglottic airway) in place, the procedure changes. Chest compressions become continuous at a rate of 100-120/min, and one breath is given every 6 seconds (10 breaths/min) without pausing compressions.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key elements of the question: 'compression-ventilation ratio', 'CPR', and 'adult victim'.
This is a factual recall question based on established medical guidelines (AHA Basic Life Support).
Recall the standard CPR protocols. The ratio for adults is consistent regardless of the number of rescuers.
Compare the standard adult ratio (30:2) to the given options.
Eliminate incorrect options. Recognize that 15:2 is for pediatric two-rescuer CPR, and other ratios like 10:2 and 20:2 are not standard.
Select the option that matches the correct guideline for an adult victim.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Concept Tested: Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) compression-to-ventilation ratio for adults.
Stem keywords: compression-ventilation ratio, CPR, adult victim
Lead-in keywords: BEST, MOST RELEVANT CLUE
Negative lead-in flag: false

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E6 Nursing Brunner Adult Health 3SA Vol 1 Part 3 p. 45-47

E6 Ghai Essential Pediatrics(pp 26-904 of 913) p. 763-765

Practise the full Tripura CHO - 2021

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.