Which is a key factor in ensuring effective CPR is delivered?

Delivering compressions at an adequate depth and rate is crucial for effective CPR because proper compressions enhance blood flow to vital organs during cardiac arrest. The recommended depth is at least 2 inches for adults, with a compression rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute. This ensures that the heart can adequately circulate blood, increasing the chances of survival until advanced medical help arrives.

While other factors such as recognizing cardiac arrest quickly and performing rescue breaths can be important in the broader context of CPR, the focus on the adequacy of compressions emphasizes the critical role they play in maintaining circulation. If compressions are too shallow or too slow, the effectiveness of CPR diminishes significantly, impacting a patient's chance of survival.