American Red Cross Basic Life Support (BLS) Provider Practice Test 2025 - Free BLS Practice Questions and Study Guide

For a 7-year-old patient in cardiac arrest, the correct rate of chest compressions is between 100 to 120 compressions per minute. This recommendation aligns with current guidelines for Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and emphasizes the importance of high-quality compressions to increase the chances of survival for children in cardiac arrest.

Maintaining a compression rate in this range is crucial because it ensures adequate blood flow to vital organs, particularly the brain and heart. Compressions that are too slow may not generate sufficient blood circulation, while those that are too rapid could compromise the effectiveness of each compression, potentially leading to ineffective CPR. The focus on 100 to 120 compressions per minute strikes a balance that maximizes the chances of survival during a critical emergency situation.

Understanding and applying this compression rate is vital for anyone performing CPR on pediatric patients, as their anatomical and physiological differences from adults mean that their response to resuscitation efforts can differ as well.