During adult CPR, how many chest compressions are recommended per cycle?

• A. Forty chest compressions per cycle
• B. Thirty chest compressions per cycle
• C. Ten chest compressions per cycle
• D. Sixty chest compressions per cycle

Answer: (B)

In adult CPR, the standard rhythm is a cycle of chest compressions followed by breaths, with thirty compressions per cycle. This cadence—30 compressions, then 2 rescue breaths—helps maintain blood flow to vital organs while allowing a brief moment to ventilate. The compressions should be delivered at about 100–120 per minute and to a depth of roughly 2 inches (5 cm) for adults. Other counts don’t fit the recommended rhythm: forty compressions would push the pace beyond the guideline and disrupt the cycle; ten compressions would provide too little perfusion; sixty compressions would leave insufficient time for breaths and quick fatigue.