When is high-quality CPR deemed effective?

High-quality CPR is deemed effective when compressions are deep and allow for full chest recoil. This is crucial because deep compressions of at least 5 cm allow for adequate blood flow to the brain and vital organs during the cardiac arrest. Full chest recoil is equally important as it enables the heart to refill with blood between compressions, which ensures maximum circulation efficiency.

The depth and recoil component of compressions not only aids in maintaining adequate perfusion pressure but also adheres to the recommended guidelines established by resuscitation bodies, ensuring a higher likelihood of returning spontaneous circulation. Factors such as compression rate and frequency of ventilations, while important, do not substitute for the necessity of depth and recoil in effective CPR. The principle of recoil emphasizes that even though compressions need to be fast, they must not compromise the depth, which can lead to reduced blood flow and ineffective CPR overall.