What is the primary focus when performing CPR?

The primary focus when performing CPR is to maintain blood circulation. This is crucial because when a person’s heart stops beating, blood flow to vital organs, especially the brain, is compromised. The primary goal of CPR is to manually pump blood through the body to ensure that organs continue to receive oxygen and nutrients until advanced medical help arrives or the heart can be restarted.

Although breathing for the patient is important, particularly in rescue breaths, the fundamental action of CPR centers around chest compressions that circulate blood. Using an AED is also a vital part of cardiac arrest treatment, but it comes into play after CPR is initiated. Medications can be necessary in a hospital setting or for advanced life support by medical professionals but are not applicable in initial CPR performed by bystanders. Therefore, maintaining blood circulation through effective chest compressions is the cornerstone of CPR and is essential for increasing the chances of survival and recovery.