What is the correct ratio for CPR?

Appeared in: NHM UP Staff Nurse-2023 Shift-2nd

Explanation

The standard compression-to-ventilation ratio for adult CPR, as recommended by the American Heart Association (AHA), is 30 compressions to 2 breaths.
This 30:2 ratio applies to adult victims for both single-rescuer and two-rescuer scenarios, ensuring a balance between circulation and oxygenation.
For single rescuers performing CPR on children and infants, the 30:2 ratio is also the standard, simplifying the protocol for lay rescuers and single providers.

Option A: The 15:2 ratio is incorrect for general CPR application, especially for adults.
Option C: A ratio of 25 compressions to 2 breaths is not a recognized or recommended standard in any official CPR guideline.
Option D: A ratio of 50 compressions to 2 breaths is not a standard CPR guideline. It would lead to significant delays in ventilation and cause excessive rescuer fatigue.

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-Breath Ratio as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Immediate initiation of high-quality CPR is a critical determinant of survival and neurological outcome following cardiac arrest. Knowing the correct ratio is a fundamental skill for all healthcare providers.
Minimizing interruptions in chest compressions is as important as the ratio itself. Every pause reduces blood flow to the brain and heart.
What if? If an advanced airway (like an endotracheal tube) is in place, the protocol changes. Chest compressions become continuous at 100-120/min, and breaths are given independently at a rate of 1 breath every 6 seconds (10 breaths/min) without pausing compressions.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the core of the question, which is asking for the standard CPR ratio.
Recall the Basic Life Support (BLS) guidelines. The most common and emphasized ratio is 30:2.
Consider the context. Unless specified (e.g., 'two-rescuer pediatric'), the question implies the standard adult or single-rescuer protocol.
Evaluate the options. Recognize that 15:2 is a specific ratio for two-rescuer pediatric CPR, making it a key distractor.
Eliminate the options (25:2 and 50:2) that do not conform to any standard CPR guidelines.
Select 30:2 as the most broadly applicable and correct answer for general CPR.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Qanv82BFFi62bCyX6r5eBT

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

E6 Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics(2024) — Volume 1 p. 610-612

Practise the full NHM UP Staff Nurse-2023 Shift-2nd

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