Red Cross Lifeguard Test 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

The recommended compression to ventilation ratio for adult CPR is 30:2. This ratio is designed to optimize the effectiveness of the CPR performed. The guideline of 30 compressions followed by 2 breaths ensures that there is a balance between maintaining proper blood circulation through chest compressions and providing oxygen to the lungs via rescue breaths.

This ratio is particularly important because high-quality chest compressions are critical for maintaining blood flow to vital organs during a cardiac emergency. By performing 30 compressions before delivering 2 rescue breaths, it allows for a more concentrated effort in circulation, which increases the chance of survival for the individual experiencing cardiac arrest.

The other ratios do not align with current CPR guidelines for adults. Ratios like 15:2 or others are typically outdated or specific to different age groups or medical conditions and hence are not recommended for adult CPR.