How long should you continue chest compressions during CPR?

• A. Until patient wakes up
• B. Until you are tired
• C. For 2 minutes
• D. Until first responders arrive

Answer: (D)

The main idea is to keep blood flowing to the brain and heart by chest compressions for as long as possible until someone with advanced training takes over. Continuing compressions maintains perfusion so the organs receive oxygen-rich blood, which improves the chances of survival. If a trained first responder or EMS arrives, they can assess, provide defibrillation if needed, and continue the resuscitation with a higher level of care, so you should keep going until they take over.

Fatigue can affect compression quality, so when another trained person is present, switch about every two minutes to maintain effective chest compressions. Do not stop because you expect the patient will wake up—many patients don’t awaken immediately, and stopping early can reduce survival chances. There isn’t a universal fixed finish time for a lone rescuer; the stop point is when help arrives or you are unable to continue safely.