What is the maximum amount of time to limit interruptions to chest compressions during CPR?

The guideline for performing high-quality CPR emphasizes minimizing interruptions to chest compressions to maintain blood flow to vital organs. The maximum recommended time to limit interruptions during chest compressions is 10 seconds. This duration allows for critical interventions, such as giving rescue breaths or accessing an Automated External Defibrillator (AED), while still ensuring that compressions resume quickly enough to be effective.

When chest compressions are paused for periods longer than 10 seconds, there's a significant risk that the patient may not receive adequate blood circulation, which is crucial for their survival and recovery. Therefore, adhering to this time limit is essential for optimizing the chances of survival following cardiac arrest. By keeping interruptions to a minimum, rescuers can provide the best possible care until further medical assistance arrives.