Why is minimizing interruptions during CPR important?

Minimizing interruptions during CPR is crucial primarily to maintain blood flow. During cardiac arrest, the heart is not effectively pumping blood, and CPR provides a manual way to circulate blood to vital organs, particularly the brain and heart. Each compression per minute generates pressure that pushes blood through the circulatory system. If you interrupt compressions, even for a short time, you reduce the overall blood flow, which can lead to further organ damage and decrease the likelihood of a successful resuscitation. Continuous and quality compressions are essential to increase the chances of survival until advanced emergency medical services arrive.

While other factors such as avoiding fatigue and monitoring the patient play roles in CPR, they do not hold the same immediate priority as ensuring uninterrupted blood flow, which is fundamental to supporting the patient’s survival during a critical situation.