What is the purpose of compression in CPR?

The purpose of compression in CPR is to circulate blood. When a person experiences cardiac arrest, their heart is unable to pump blood effectively to supply oxygen to the brain and other vital organs. High-quality chest compressions help create artificial circulation by manually compressing the chest, which increases pressure in the thoracic cavity. This pressure is essential because it helps push blood out of the heart and into the body, particularly to critical areas such as the brain, while also allowing for blood to flow back into the heart during relaxation of the chest.

In CPR, the emphasis on performing compressions at the correct rate and depth is crucial for maintaining blood flow to these vital organs, improving chances of survival and increasing the likelihood of a positive outcome when emergency medical personnel arrive.

This understanding underscores the importance of focusing on compressions over other interventions during the early moments of CPR, particularly in layperson rescues where immediate action can significantly impact survival rates.