title: The relationship between rate of chest compression and compression:relaxation ratio.
abstract: One of the arguments put forward in support of a relatively fast rate of chest compression during CPR, is that it facilitates the achievement of a high compression:relaxation ratio. This has been shown to increase blood flow. In this study a group of volunteers carried out chest compression at the rate that each felt was correct and comfortable. There was no significant relationship between compression rate and compression:relaxation ratio. In a second study volunteers carried out chest compression on a manikin at rates of 40/min; 60/min; 80/min and 100/min. There was no significant rate related difference in the compression:relaxation ratios recorded. The ability to achieve a high compression duration is not related to compression rate, and should not be a consideration when guidelines on CPR are revised.
authors.affiliation: Department of Medicine, Colchester General Hospital, UK.
authors.forename: A J
authors.initials: AJ
authors.lastname: Handley
authors.forename: J A
authors.initials: JA
authors.lastname: Handley
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D016887:Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation / Q000379:methods*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008348:Manikins; D008875:Middle Aged; D011312:Pressure; D013909:Thorax; D013997:Time Factors; D014838:Volunteers