What is the recommended rate of chest compressions per minute?

• A. 80 per minute
• B. 120 per minute
• C. 100 per minute
• D. 60 per minute

Answer: (C)

The rate at which you perform chest compressions is directly tied to how well you sustain blood flow to the heart and brain during CPR. You want enough compressions per minute to keep perfusion steady, but you must also allow the chest to recoil fully and be deep enough with each compression. Current guidelines set a target around 100 to 120 compressions per minute to balance speed with the need for proper depth and full recoil. Choosing a pace of about 100 per minute gives a practical, easy-to-hit target that stays safely within that recommended range and helps you maintain consistent rhythm even as fatigue sets in. Going too slowly, like 60 or 80 per minute, would reduce blood flow; going too fast toward 120 per minute can make it harder to maintain depth and allow full chest recoil. A simple pacing cue, such as a beat near 100 per minute, helps you stay on track.