What parameter indicates effective CPR?

Effective CPR is indicated by several parameters that reflect the adequacy of chest compressions and ventilations being delivered. One of the key indicators of successful resuscitation efforts is the visible rise of the chest during ventilations. This visible chest rise confirms that air is entering the lungs properly, which is essential for effective ventilation and oxygenation of the patient.

When rescuers provide rescue breaths as part of CPR, the goal is to ensure that the breaths are effective in inflating the lungs. A visible rise signifies that sufficient air is being delivered, and thus the patient's oxygenation and ventilation are improving. This parameter directly relates to the effectiveness of the CPR being performed.

In contrast, while other parameters mentioned may hold some relevance in different contexts, they do not directly measure the effectiveness of CPR in the same way. For example, an increased heart rate without compression may suggest some cardiac activity but does not confirm the effect of CPR. The absence of a carotid pulse during compressions indicates the need for continued CPR rather than its effectiveness. Likewise, skin color returning to normal is a positive sign, but it may occur independently of effective CPR, depending on other factors influencing blood flow and oxygenation. Therefore, visible chest rise during ventilations is the most direct indicator