For CPR, what is the purpose of performing compressions?

The purpose of performing compressions during CPR is to circulate blood through the body, particularly to vital organs like the brain and heart. When a person experiences cardiac arrest, their heart has stopped pumping blood effectively. By performing chest compressions, rescuers create artificial circulation, which helps maintain some blood flow to these critical areas, reducing the risk of brain damage and other complications.

This critical step supports the body's need for oxygenated blood and helps buy time until professional medical assistance can arrive or until the heart starts beating again. The other options do not accurately reflect the primary role of compressions; checking for responsiveness helps determine if CPR is needed, reviving breathing is a separate objective of CPR, and reducing heart rate is not a goal during chest compressions.