How often should rescuers switch compressors during CPR?

• A. Every 1 minute
• B. Every 2 minutes
• C. Every 3 minutes
• D. Only when fatigued

Answer: (B)

Maintaining high-quality chest compressions requires rotating the person delivering compressions on a regular schedule to prevent technique from degrading due to fatigue. The standard approach is to switch every 2 minutes when multiple rescuers are present. This interval strikes a balance: it minimizes the drop in compression depth and rate that comes with fatigue, while keeping pauses for switching brief and predictable so overall treatment time isn’t unnecessarily lengthened.

If you wait until you feel fatigued, your compressions are more likely to become shallow or slow, which reduces blood flow during CPR. Conversely, switching too often (like every minute) adds frequent pauses and can disrupt the rhythm and overall efficiency of the resuscitation. Waiting until fatigue is obvious isn’t reliable, because fatigue can set in before you notice it, and the guidelines aim for a predetermined switch interval to maintain consistency.

So, the best practice is to switch every 2 minutes to keep chest compressions effective and continuous, with minimal interruption.