Final answer:
During CPR, paramedics should switch compressors every 2 minutes to maintain the quality of chest compressions, which are vital for circulating blood and preventing brain damage.
Step-by-step explanation:
Paramedics should switch compressors during a code or cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), typically every 2 minutes, to maintain the quality of chest compressions. Performing high-quality chest compressions is crucial as they help manually compress the blood within the heart to continue supplying the pulmonary and systemic circuits, which is especially critical for the brain. According to current standards, CPR chest compressions should be at least 5 cm deep and at a rate of 100 compressions per minute. The compressor switch helps to mitigate rescuer fatigue, which can lead to ineffective compressions and reduced blood flow to the patient’s brain and vital organs. It's important to perform CPR until the patient shows signs of life or is declared deceased by a qualified healthcare professional.