Two rescuers begin high-quality CPR while the third rescuer leaves to get the AED. What action supports 2 rescuer CPR?
a. Alternating rescue breaths every 3 cycles
b. Alternating the compressor every 2 minutes
c. Alternating the AED role every minutes
d. Alternating shocks every minute
The correct answer and explanation is :
The correct answer is b. Alternating the compressor every 2 minutes.
Explanation:
In a two-rescuer CPR scenario, the primary roles are typically divided into two tasks: one rescuer performs chest compressions, and the other administers rescue breaths. However, to maintain the highest quality of CPR and avoid fatigue, it is important to switch roles periodically. This is why alternating the compressor every 2 minutes is a critical action.
Why Alternating Every 2 Minutes Is Important:
Chest compressions are the most critical component of high-quality CPR. High-quality chest compressions should be performed at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute, with a depth of at least 2 inches (5 cm) in adults. Maintaining this rate and depth for extended periods can lead to rescuer fatigue, which in turn can compromise the quality of compressions.
When one rescuer performs chest compressions continuously for long periods without a break, fatigue sets in, and both the rate and depth of the compressions may decrease. This diminishes the effectiveness of the CPR being performed, and in turn, lowers the chances of survival for the victim. Therefore, rescuer fatigue can be avoided by alternating the compressor role every 2 minutes, allowing each rescuer to rest briefly and maintain the quality of compressions.
Why the Other Options Are Incorrect:
- a. Alternating rescue breaths every 3 cycles: This statement suggests alternating breaths every 3 cycles of compressions. While it’s important to coordinate the timing of breaths with compressions, the emphasis in two-rescuer CPR is on alternating the compressor role to maintain compression quality. The breathing role doesn’t need to be alternated as frequently.
- c. Alternating the AED role every minute: The role of the rescuer who operates the AED is crucial but does not require frequent switching every minute. The rescuer handling the AED should focus on assessing the rhythm and delivering shocks if necessary, but this is not as demanding physically as chest compressions.
- d. Alternating shocks every minute: This is not a correct action for supporting two-rescuer CPR. Shocks are administered based on the rhythm detected by the AED, and not on a strict time schedule. The goal is to deliver a shock only when the AED instructs, not in a routine manner.
In conclusion, alternating the compressor every 2 minutes ensures the quality of chest compressions is maintained throughout the resuscitation effort, which is the key to increasing the survival chances of a victim in cardiac arrest.