What is the primary goal of chest compressions in a patient experiencing cardiac arrest?

The primary goal of chest compressions in a patient experiencing cardiac arrest is to maintain blood circulation. When a patient is in cardiac arrest, the heart is unable to pump blood effectively, which means that vital organs such as the brain and heart itself do not receive the oxygen they need to function. By performing chest compressions, you create artificial circulation that helps to push blood to these critical areas, thereby preserving oxygenation of the tissues and increasing the chances of survival until more advanced medical care can be provided.

Effective chest compressions ensure that blood flow continues, even in the absence of a normal heartbeat, and they are crucial for sustaining life during the resuscitation process. This is why high-quality, continuous chest compressions are emphasized in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) protocols for cardiac arrest situations.