What is one action that helps maximize cardiac output during CPR?

Maximizing cardiac output during CPR is crucial for ensuring that adequate blood flow reaches vital organs. Allowing the chest to fully recoil between compressions is essential because it facilitates the return of blood to the heart. When the chest is compressed, blood is pushed out of the heart and into the circulation; however, if adequate recoil does not occur, the heart cannot refill properly. This results in decreased cardiac output and reduced effectiveness of CPR.

During effective chest compression, a full recoil allows negative pressure to develop within the thoracic cavity, which aids in venous return to the heart. This maximizes the amount of blood that can be pumped out on the next compression. Therefore, ensuring that the chest fully recoils is fundamentally important for maximizing cardiac output during CPR.

Other options may not be as effective or relevant to improving cardiac output during CPR. For example, limiting the rate of compressions could hinder the flow of blood if it falls below the optimal rate. Performing rescue breaths focuses on breathing and does not directly support the mechanical aspect of circulation as effectively as ensuring full chest recoil does. Leaning on the patient’s chest between compressions could impede the chest's ability to recoil fully, further compromising blood return to the heart.