What should be done after 30 chest compressions during CPR?

After performing 30 chest compressions during CPR, the next appropriate step is to administer 2 rescue breaths. This sequence is part of the CPR guidelines for adults, where the cycle of compressions and breaths aims to maintain circulation and provide oxygen to the lungs. The rationale for giving rescue breaths after the initial set of compressions is to ensure that the person receives both chest compressions to circulate blood and the breaths to deliver oxygen, maximizing the chances of survival until emergency medical services arrive.

Administering rescue breaths allows for the delivery of oxygen directly into the lungs, which is crucial since a victim of cardiac arrest may not be breathing adequately. With the combination of compressions and breaths, you help maintain blood flow and oxygenation, which are vital in preventing brain damage and increasing the likelihood of a positive outcome.

This approach balances the need for effective circulation with the requirement for adequate oxygenation of the blood. Following this rhythm—30 compressions followed by 2 breaths—ensures adherence to established CPR protocols, which are designed based on research to yield the best outcomes in emergencies.