What is the recommended compression rate for CPR?

The recommended compression rate for CPR is 100 to 120 compressions per minute because research indicates that this rate is optimal for maintaining blood flow during cardiac arrest. When compressions are delivered at this frequency, they create sufficient pressure to circulate blood effectively to vital organs, which is crucial for improving the chances of survival and favorable outcomes for patients.

Maintaining this rate also aligns with guidelines from various organizations, including the American Heart Association, and is supported by studies that highlight the relationship between compression rate and patient recovery. The compression rate strikes a balance between being fast enough to sustain blood circulation but not so fast that it compromises the quality of compressions. Compressions should be deep and effective, and 100 to 120 beats per minute has been determined to be the range that best supports this objective.