ARRT Patient Care Practice Exam

How does the rate of compressions during CPR for an infant compare to that for an adult?

1. Remain the same

2. Double

3. Decrease

4. Increase

The correct answer is: Increase

During CPR for an infant, the recommended rate of compressions is between 100 and 120 compressions per minute, which is similar to or slightly faster than the rate typically used for adults, which is also around 100 to 120 compressions per minute during CPR. The emphasis in infant CPR is on maintaining an adequate and effective rate of compressions that provides sufficient blood flow to vital organs. While the rates do not necessarily increase for infants when compared directly to adults, the technique and considerations—such as the depth and method of compressions—are tailored to the infant's physiological needs, but the rate itself is consistent with adult guidelines. It's important to note that the infant CPR technique differs in that compressions are often performed with two fingers rather than the whole hand, and the depth should be about 1.5 inches. Additionally, fatigue can set in more quickly when performing CPR on an infant due to the smaller size, reinforcing the importance of rhythm and technique rather than significantly increasing the rate above the adult standard. Thus, the idea that the compressions for infants may "increase" could be understood more in terms of maintaining a compliance with guidelines rather than a direct numerical increase when considering the rapidity and precision needed in performing them