Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Practice Test

When do you change roles during CPR?

1. Every 30 seconds

2. Every 60 seconds

3. Every 2 minutes

4. Every 5 minutes

The correct answer is: Every 2 minutes

Changing roles during CPR is typically recommended every 2 minutes. This timing allows for adequate performance of high-quality chest compressions without fatigue affecting the responder's effectiveness. After about 2 minutes of continuous compressions, the rescuer can become tired, which may decrease the depth and rate of compressions, making them less effective. By rotating every 2 minutes, rescuers can maintain optimal compressions while ensuring that everyone involved remains alert and capable of performing their roles effectively. This practice also minimizes interruptions in compressions, which are crucial for maintaining circulation to the brain and vital organs during a cardiac arrest. Other intervals, such as 30 seconds, 60 seconds, or 5 minutes, may not offer the same balance between effectiveness and fatigue management, which is why the 2-minute mark is generally recommended in CPR guidelines.