In performing basic life support, what is the primary goal of chest compressions?

The primary goal of chest compressions during basic life support is to circulate oxygenated blood to vital organs, especially the brain and heart. When a person experiences cardiac arrest, the heart stops pumping blood effectively, leading to a lack of oxygen in the bloodstream. By performing chest compressions, emergency responders can artificially create blood flow, which helps maintain a level of oxygen delivery to these critical areas, delaying the onset of irreversible brain damage and preserving the possibility of successful resuscitation.

This process is vital because even if the airway remains unobstructed, without effective circulation, the body cannot receive the oxygen it needs to function. Therefore, while addressing the airway and other aspects are important in a full resuscitation effort, the immediate and crucial objective of chest compressions is to ensure that blood is circulated properly throughout the body during cardiac arrest.