What is the recommended procedure for performing CPR on an adult?

The recommended procedure for performing CPR on an adult involves administering 30 chest compressions followed by 2 rescue breaths. This sequence reflects the latest guidelines established by organizations such as the American Heart Association and the European Resuscitation Council, which emphasize the importance of high-quality chest compressions to maintain blood flow to vital organs during a cardiac arrest.

The rationale behind the 30 compressions followed by 2 breaths is to effectively circulate oxygen-rich blood while also providing a means to ventilate the lungs. The compressions should be performed at a rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute, at a depth of about 2 to 2.4 inches (5 to 6 cm), allowing complete chest recoil between compressions. Following every 30 compressions, the rescuer gives 2 breaths—this is crucial for providing oxygen to the patient.

Adhering to this sequence maximizes the chances of survival by ensuring that the heart and brain receive continuous blood flow while also addressing the need for oxygenation, particularly important for an adult who is experiencing a cardiac emergency.