Question

You are a member of the emergency response team for your hospital and are called to a code blue. You arrive to find one of your colleagues leading a resuscitation attempt to an elderly patient. You notice that the person performing chest compressions seems to be tiring, and the compression rate is slowing. When should rescuers switch positions during CPR?

A. Never switch rescuers, and maintain current roles
B. Switch rescuers at 5 minute intervals
C. Switch rescuers about every 2 minutes
D. Switch rescuers when placing the AED pads

Answer 1

Rescuers should switch positions during CPR about every 2 minutes to maintain high-quality chest compressions and prevent fatigue.

Step-by-step explanation:

During CPR, rescuers should switch positions approximately every 2 minutes to ensure that high-quality chest compressions are maintained. It is crucial that each rescuer performs compressions at the correct depth and rate, which is at least 5 cm deep and at a rate of 100 compressions per minute. Frequent switching helps prevent fatigue, which could otherwise lead to a decline in the efficiency and effectiveness of the chest compressions, a vital component of emergency response. Colleagues leading the resuscitation attempt should communicate clearly to coordinate the switch without interrupting the flow of chest compressions.