During CPR, how many chest compressions should be performed in relation to ventilations?

The recommended ratio of chest compressions to ventilations during CPR for adults is 30 compressions followed by 2 ventilations. This ratio is designed to ensure that the patient maintains an adequate blood flow, which is critical for survival, while also providing timely rescue breaths to oxygenate the blood.

This approach prioritizes chest compressions as they are vital for maintaining circulation and delivering oxygen to vital organs. After every set of 30 compressions, the two ventilations help to deliver oxygen directly to the lungs, supporting the re-oxygenation process more effectively.

The choice of 30:2 is a key component of the CPR guidelines established by various resuscitation authorities, reflecting the balance needed between maintaining perfusion and ensuring oxygen delivery.