What is the primary goal of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) in children?

The primary goal of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) in children is to restore circulation and breathing. When a child's heart stops beating effectively or they stop breathing, the body is deprived of oxygen, which is vital for survival. CPR aims to manually maintain blood circulation and support breathing until professional medical help can arrive or the child can be stabilized in a different manner.

Restoring circulation involves performing chest compressions to help pump blood to vital organs, including the brain, heart, and lungs. This is crucial because even a brief period without adequate blood flow can lead to irreversible damage or death. Additionally, providing rescue breaths as part of CPR aids in supplying oxygen to the lungs, further supporting the body's need for this essential gas.

While preventing airway obstruction is important in ensuring effective breathing, it is part of the overall process of CPR but not the primary goal. Stabilizing blood sugar levels and providing oxygen therapy, while important in specific medical situations, do not encompass the immediate and critical objectives of CPR, which centers on reviving cardiac and respiratory function.