Which role does chest compression play in CPR?

Chest compression during CPR is crucial for maintaining blood circulation to vital organs when the heart is unable to pump effectively. When a person experiences cardiac arrest, the heart stops beating, and blood does not flow to the body's organs, which can lead to irreversible damage within a short period. By applying chest compressions, you manually create pressure that mimics the heart's pumping action, propelling blood through the circulatory system. This circulation helps deliver oxygen to the brain and other essential organs, increasing the chances of survival until advanced medical help arrives.

Maintaining an open airway, relaxing the patient, or stabilizing the spine are important aspects of patient care in certain situations, but they do not directly contribute to the immediate goal of sustaining blood flow during a cardiac emergency. Chest compressions stand out because they directly address the core issue in cardiac arrest by ensuring some level of perfusion is maintained.