NBCSN Nationally Certified School Nurse Practice Exam

What is the compression to ventilation ratio for a single rescuer performing CPR?

1. 15:2

2. 30:2

3. 30:15

4. 20:2

The correct answer is: 30:2

The compression to ventilation ratio for a single rescuer performing CPR is 30:2. This ratio reflects the best practice guidelines established by organizations such as the American Heart Association. The emphasis on performing 30 compressions followed by 2 rescue breaths is rooted in the understanding that providing high-quality chest compressions is critical for maintaining blood flow to the brain and heart during cardiac arrest. This 30:2 ratio is designed to maximize the effectiveness of CPR by allowing for a higher number of compressions, which not only helps to circulate blood but also improves the chances of successful defibrillation if an automated external defibrillator (AED) is used. The balance of compressions and ventilations also recognizes the importance of oxygenating the blood, making the periodic breaths vital to support the victim’s immediate oxygen needs. Other ratios provided do not align with current best practices for single rescuer CPR. The 15:2 ratio, for example, may be associated with scenarios involving more than one rescuer, but it's less commonly used and focuses more on ventilation than the necessary compressions per minute. Similarly, a ratio of 30:15 is not recognized as standard, as it does not efficiently balance the number of compressions to ventilations recommended for effective