Which of the following is a critical step regarding chest compressions?

Limiting interruptions to chest compressions to less than 10 seconds is a critical step because continuous compressions are vital for maintaining blood flow to the heart and brain during a cardiac arrest. Interruptions, even those longer than 10 seconds, can significantly decrease the effectiveness of resuscitation efforts and reduce the chances of a favorable outcome. Each moment without compressions decreases the perfusion pressure, and the heart's ability to regain a spontaneous rhythm.

In the context of BLS, it is essential for rescuers to minimize any pauses in chest compressions to ensure that the patient's circulation is supported as effectively as possible during the resuscitation process. Other factors, such as the depth of compressions, are indeed important, but ensuring that compressions are continuous and as uninterrupted as possible directly impacts the chances of survival and recovery for the patient.