Why is chest recoil important during CPR?

Chest recoil during CPR is crucial because it allows the heart to refill with blood between compressions. When chest compressions are performed, blood is pushed out of the heart and into the circulatory system, but for effective circulation, the heart must have the opportunity to return to its resting position to refill with blood. Without adequate recoil, blood flow can be compromised, as it limits the heart's ability to fill properly between each compression cycle. This impacts the overall efficacy of CPR, potentially reducing the chances of successful resuscitation.

While avoiding rescuer fatigue, ensuring accurate compression depth, and reducing the risk of CPR-related injuries are important considerations during CPR, the primary physiological benefit of chest recoil lies in its role in optimizing blood flow and cardiac function.