What is the recommended compression to ventilation ratio for adult CPR when alone?

The recommended compression to ventilation ratio for adult CPR when performed by a single rescuer is 30 to 2. This means that for every 30 chest compressions given, the rescuer should provide 2 breaths. This ratio is based on current guidelines to maximize the effectiveness of CPR.

The rationale behind this 30 to 2 ratio is that for adults, high-quality chest compressions are crucial for maintaining blood circulation and providing oxygen to vital organs during cardiac arrest. The emphasis is on achieving a sufficient number of compressions—30 in this case—to ensure adequate blood flow. The two rescue breaths are then administered to provide oxygen, complementing the compressions.

Maintaining this balance between compressions and ventilations helps optimize the chances of a successful resuscitation outcome for adults in cardiac arrest situations. This approach is aligned with the latest CPR protocols that prioritize continuous chest compressions while still ensuring ventilation is provided.