Basic Life Support (BLS) Practice Exam 2026 - Free BLS Practice Questions and Study Guide

The recommended compression rate during CPR is 100 to 120 compressions per minute. This range has been established based on research showing that this rate is most effective in maintaining blood flow and improving outcomes for cardiac arrest victims. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) primarily aims to mimic the heart's pumping action to circulate oxygenated blood to vital organs, especially the brain, which is crucial in prolonging the chances of survival until more advanced medical help can arrive.

Compressing at a rate within this range ensures that the pressure generated is sufficient to create adequate blood flow, per the guidelines revised by organizations like the American Heart Association. Rates outside this optimal range—either too fast or too slow—can hinder the effectiveness of CPR. For example, rates of 80 to 100 per minute may not provide enough blood flow, while exceedingly high rates of 120 to 140 could compromise the quality of compressions, making them shallower and less effective. Similarly, a much slower rate, as seen in the lowest recommended range, would result in inadequate circulation, thus diminishing the chances of recovering a stable heart rhythm. Adhering to the guiding range of 100 to 120 compressions per minute is essential for effective CPR.