How often should rescuers switch roles during CPR to avoid fatigue?

The recommendation to switch roles during CPR every 2 minutes is based on the need to maintain high-quality compressions and prevent fatigue among rescuers. CPR can be physically demanding, and as fatigue sets in, the quality of chest compressions may decline, which could reduce the chances of restoring effective circulation in a patient experiencing cardiac arrest.

Switching roles every 2 minutes allows each rescuer to have a brief recovery period, ensuring that they can provide effective compressions at the recommended rate and depth. This practice is supported by guidelines from organizations like the American Heart Association, which emphasizes the importance of consistent, high-quality chest compressions in improving outcomes during cardiac arrest situations.

In contrast, switching less frequently could compromise the effectiveness of CPR, as tired rescuers may not be able to perform compressions effectively, impacting the overall performance of the resuscitation attempt.