What is the primary purpose of chest compressions in CPR?

The primary purpose of chest compressions in CPR is to circulate blood and maintain oxygen flow to vital organs. When a person experiences cardiac arrest, their heart stops pumping blood effectively, which means that vital organs, including the brain, no longer receive the necessary oxygen and nutrients. Chest compressions help to manually pump blood throughout the body, which maintains perfusion to critical areas until automated defibrillation or advanced medical interventions can restore the heart's normal rhythm.

Although other aspects of CPR, such as providing ventilations and clearing the airway, are also important for patient survival, the fundamental function of chest compressions is to ensure that oxygenated blood continues to circulate to sustain life while emergency help is on the way.