During CPR, chest compressions should not be interrupted for longer than what duration?

During CPR, it's crucial to minimize interruptions in chest compressions to maintain blood flow to vital organs. The recommended maximum duration for any interruption in chest compressions is 10 seconds. This guideline helps ensure that the brain and other critical tissues receive adequate oxygen, which is essential for increasing the chances of survival and recovery.

If compressions are paused for longer than this time frame, it can lead to a significant decrease in the chances of successful resuscitation. This is particularly important in a high-stress situation where every second counts, as prolonged interruptions can result in the loss of effective circulation and contribute to poor outcomes.

Understanding this timing helps CPR practitioners maintain the integrity of their efforts and align with best practices established by resuscitation guidelines. Ensuring that compressions are performed continuously for as long as possible, while keeping interruptions within this limit, is vital for effective CPR.