What is the maximum recommended pause duration for breaks during CPR using manual chest compressions?

• A. Less than 10 seconds
• B. Less than 20 seconds
• C. Less than 30 seconds
• D. Less than 45 seconds

Answer: (A)

During CPR with manual chest compressions, the goal is to keep blood flowing with as few interruptions as possible. Pauses for rhythm checks, defibrillation, or pulse assessment should be extremely brief because even short breaks reduce coronary and cerebral perfusion. The guideline emphasis is that these pauses should be less than 10 seconds, so you can quickly resume chest compressions and restore ongoing perfusion. Longer interruptions—like 20, 30, or 45 seconds—significantly drop perfusion and overall effectiveness of resuscitation, making outcomes worse. So, the maximum recommended pause duration is under 10 seconds.