What happens to blood flow when chest compressions stop significantly?

When chest compressions stop significantly, blood flow decreases. This is primarily because chest compressions generate pressure within the chest cavity, which helps to pump blood through the heart and into circulation. When compressions are halted, this mechanical support is removed, leading to a drop in intra-thoracic pressure and consequently diminishing blood flow to vital organs.

During cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), continuous compressions are crucial to maintaining blood circulation to the heart and brain. Effective compressions facilitate blood flow by temporarily acting like a pump, ensuring that oxygen-rich blood reaches essential bodily systems. Therefore, without these compressions, the body quickly starts to suffer from a lack of oxygen and nutrients, making the blood flow drop sharply. The urgency of maintaining compressions during CPR emphasizes the necessity of this action for sustaining life until professional medical help can take over.