What is the recommended sequence for CPR in adults?

The recommended sequence for CPR in adults emphasizes the importance of initiating high-quality chest compressions as soon as possible when a person is unresponsive and not breathing normally. This approach prioritizes chest compressions because they are critical for maintaining blood flow to vital organs, especially the brain and heart, during cardiac arrest.

Starting with chest compressions helps to create effective blood circulation, which is essential for oxygen delivery even before rescue breaths are administered. Once compressions are underway, airway management can be assessed to ensure that the airway is clear, followed by the administration of rescue breaths if necessary, particularly in cases where the individual has suffered a cardiac-related event rather than asphyxia.

This sequence aligns with the guidelines set forth by the American Heart Association, which stress that the circulation should come first in the context of cardiac arrest, leading to more successful outcomes in resuscitation efforts. The focus on chest compressions reflects current evidence supporting the critical nature of these actions in improving survival rates and neurological outcomes.