What should be done to maximize venous return during CPR?

Allowing full sternum recoil during CPR is crucial for maximizing venous return to the heart. When chest compressions are delivered, the heart is mechanically compressed, which facilitates the forward flow of blood during the compression phase. However, to ensure optimal blood flow during the diastolic phase (when the heart fills with blood), full recoil of the sternum is necessary. This process helps create a negative pressure in the thoracic cavity, which draws blood back to the heart. If there is insufficient recoil, it can impede blood returning to the heart, reducing the volume of blood available for the next compression and ultimately affecting the effectiveness of CPR.

While other strategies like adjusting the depth of compressions or changing to 2-person CPR might have benefits in certain scenarios, they do not directly target the mechanism of venous return as effectively as allowing for full recoil does. Therefore, emphasizing the importance of proper chest recoil contributes significantly to the overall success of CPR and enhances the chances of restoring circulation.