During two-rescuer CPR, after approximately how long should rescuers switch roles?

During two-rescuer CPR, after approximately how long should rescuers switch roles?

• A. About every 2 minutes.
• B. Only after 5 minutes.
• C. Only after 10 cycles.
• D. Never switch.

Answer: (A)

Maintaining high-quality chest compressions relies on rotating rescuers regularly. In two-rescuer CPR, switching about every two minutes keeps compression depth and rate from degrading due to fatigue while the other rescuer takes over breaths or airway management without long pauses. This timing helps maintain a steady rhythm and minimizes interruptions, which is crucial for keeping blood flow to the heart and brain. Waiting longer, like five minutes, lets fatigue set in and lowers compression quality; switching after a fixed number of cycles without regard to time isn’t as reliable, and never switching would allow one rescuer to fatigue and the other to remain idle, reducing overall effectiveness. So, about every two minutes is the best practice.

Maintaining high-quality chest compressions relies on rotating rescuers regularly. In two-rescuer CPR, switching about every two minutes keeps compression depth and rate from degrading due to fatigue while the other rescuer takes over breaths or airway management without long pauses. This timing helps maintain a steady rhythm and minimizes interruptions, which is crucial for keeping blood flow to the heart and brain. Waiting longer, like five minutes, lets fatigue set in and lowers compression quality; switching after a fixed number of cycles without regard to time isn’t as reliable, and never switching would allow one rescuer to fatigue and the other to remain idle, reducing overall effectiveness. So, about every two minutes is the best practice.