The effectiveness of CPR increases when...

The effectiveness of CPR significantly improves when chest compressions are continuous with no pauses. Continuous chest compressions are crucial because they help maintain blood flow to the brain and vital organs during a cardiac arrest. The heart is essentially a muscle that requires a steady supply of oxygen-rich blood to function, and uninterrupted compressions ensure that blood circulates effectively.

When compressions are executed without break, the likelihood of restoring a normal heart rhythm and increasing the chance of survival also rises. Interruptions in chest compressions can lead to a drop in blood pressure and diminish the chances of successful resuscitation. Thus, maintaining a constant rhythm and ensuring compressions are given consistently is a key principle in effective CPR.

In contrast, while quick compressions and frequent breaths are important aspects of CPR, the primary focus should be on maintaining continuous compressions to optimize blood flow during the critical moments of cardiac arrest.