What is the purpose of chest compressions during CPR?

The primary purpose of chest compressions during CPR is to move blood from the heart to vital organs. When the heart stops beating or is ineffective in pumping blood, chest compressions create artificial circulation by manually compressing the chest, which generates pressure that helps propel blood through the circulatory system. This is crucial for delivering oxygen and nutrients to the brain and other vital organs, thereby increasing the chances of survival and minimizing the risk of long-term damage.

While other options touch upon important aspects of emergency care, they do not align with the primary function of chest compressions. Inflating the lungs with air is achieved through rescue breaths, but it does not relate to the mechanical action of compressions. Stabilizing the spine during resuscitation is a consideration in spinal injury scenarios but is not directly linked to the function of chest compressions themselves. Clearing the airway from obstructions is vital as well, but this also is separate from the compressions which focus specifically on maintaining blood flow. All these points emphasize that the critical role of chest compressions is to ensure vital organs continue to receive oxygenated blood during cardiac arrest.