Compression-to-Ventilation Ratio

Pronunciation: kuhm-PRESH-un too ven-ti-LAY-shuhn RAY-shee-oh

Definition:
The Compression-to-Ventilation Ratio refers to the number of chest compressions given in relation to the number of ventilations (or rescue breaths) provided during cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) for someone in cardiac arrest.

What is Compression-to-Ventilation Ratio?

Overview:
During CPR, it’s essential to achieve a balance between providing chest compressions to circulate blood and giving rescue breaths to oxygenate the blood. The ratio dictates how many compressions should be given for every set of breaths.

Key Facts About Compression-to-Ventilation Ratio:

• For adults in cardiac arrest: The typical ratio is 30 compressions to 2 ventilations.
• For children and infants (when a single rescuer is involved): The ratio is also often 30:2.
• The ratio can change based on specific situations and updated guidelines.

Compression-to-Ventilation Ratio | Importance & Necessity

Why is the compression-to-ventilation ratio important?

The reasons include:

• Ensures effective circulation and oxygenation during CPR.
• Provides a standardized approach to maximize the chance of survival.
• Facilitates synchronized teamwork during multiple rescuer scenarios.

Who needs to understand this ratio?

• Healthcare professionals.
• Emergency responders like EMTs and paramedics.
• Lay rescuers performing CPR.

Compression-to-Ventilation Ratio | Adherence & Modification

How is the ratio adhered to during CPR?

1. Consistency: Stick to the recommended ratio for efficiency.
2. Counting: Keeping a mental count or having a designated counter during team resuscitations can help.
3. Monitoring: Observe chest rise during ventilations to ensure effective breaths.

When might the ratio be modified?

Certain situations, such as:

1. Trained rescuers with advanced airway in place: Continuous compressions may be given with ventilations provided separately.
2. Drowning victims or primary respiratory arrest: May benefit from a different ratio due to the primary cause of arrest.