The determination of timing for a change in personnel during cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is a critical factor influencing the effectiveness of the intervention. This determination focuses on mitigating rescuer fatigue and maintaining consistent, high-quality chest compressions and ventilations. Proper execution of CPR is physically demanding, and a decline in rescuer performance directly correlates with the duration of continuous effort. The optimal interval for changing responders is generally recommended to be every two minutes. This frequency allows for adequate exertion while minimizing the impact of fatigue on the patient’s chances of survival.
Adherence to this standard recommendation is important for several reasons. Firstly, consistent chest compression depth and rate are fundamental to circulating blood effectively. Secondly, proper ventilation volume and timing are essential for oxygenating the blood. Fatigue compromises both of these elements, leading to less effective CPR. Historically, prolonged CPR without responder changes was common. However, research has demonstrated that frequent changes improve the overall quality of resuscitation efforts, leading to better patient outcomes. The consistent application of chest compressions at the correct rate and depth, and the provision of adequate ventilation, collectively contribute to increased survival rates following cardiac arrest.
