Homing in on Optimal Compression Rate and Depth for CPR

Compression at a rate of 86 to 129 per minute and depth of 3.8 to 5.6 cm was associated with higher survival to discharge.

Adult cardiac arrest guidelines recommend delivery of chest compressions at a rate of 100 to 120 per minute and a depth of 5 to 6 cm. This guidance is primarily based on evaluation of each of these variables in isolation, even though depth and rate are thought to be related.

To better define the optimal combination of compression rate and depth, researchers performed a secondary analysis of data collected during a randomized trial of 8718 patients with out-of-hospital cardiac arrest across the U.S. and Canada from 2007 to 2009 (NEJM JW Emerg Med Oct 2011 and N Engl J Med 2011; 365:798). The analysis includes 3643 patients with 5 minutes of compression rate and depth data from a cardiac monitor. Compressions at a rate of 107 per minute and de…

Reviewing Author

Jason T. McMullan, MD, MS, FAEMS

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardEMCREG International

Grant/Research SupportNIH; Department of Defense

Editorial BoardsJournal of Emergency Medical Services

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesNational Association of EMS Physicians (Chair, Research Committee)