During adult CPR, how often should the roles of providers be switched when multiple providers are present?

Switching roles every 2 minutes during adult CPR when multiple providers are present is essential for maintaining the quality of chest compressions and reducing fatigue among rescuers. This practice allows each provider to deliver effective compressions while ensuring that the CPR remains consistent and effective. Research has shown that after about 2 minutes of continuous chest compressions, the quality can decrease due to fatigue, potentially compromising the effectiveness of the resuscitation efforts.

By changing providers at this interval, you ensure that the new provider can start fresh and maintain the necessary force and depth of compressions. This change also provides the opportunity for the team to briefly communicate, discuss the performance, and check the rhythm of the patient if monitoring equipment is available. Thus, adhering to the 2-minute guideline helps optimize patient outcomes in a high-pressure emergency situation.