What should the compression rate be during CPR?

The recommended compression rate during cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) for adults is 100-120 compressions per minute. This rate is critical because research has shown that high-quality chest compressions can significantly improve the chances of survival during cardiac arrest. The compressions should be performed at this rate to ensure that the heart has an adequate amount of blood flow, which helps keep vital organs, including the brain, supplied with oxygen.

Compressions that are too slow (as indicated in the lower rate options) may not effectively circulate blood, which can result in a lack of vital support to the organs, while excessively high rates (as seen in the upper rate options) can lead to poor quality of compressions and can make it difficult to achieve adequate depth and recoil. Thus, maintaining the compression rate within the 100-120 compressions per minute range strikes a balance between efficacy and efficiency during this life-saving procedure.