What is the primary purpose of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR)?

The primary purpose of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is to preserve brain function in the event of cardiac arrest or when an individual is not breathing. When the heart stops beating, blood flow to the brain ceases, leading to potential brain damage due to lack of oxygen. CPR involves chest compressions and rescue breaths, which help maintain blood flow and deliver oxygen to the brain and other vital organs until advanced medical care can be provided. This focus on preserving brain function is crucial because the brain is highly sensitive to oxygen deprivation and can begin to suffer irreversible damage within minutes.

While allowing air to enter the lungs, keeping the heart pumping, and maintaining body temperature are all important physiological responses, they are secondary effects of the overall goal of CPR, which is to sustain brain health and viability during a life-threatening emergency.