How can you tell if CPR is effective?

The determination of effective CPR hinges primarily on observable physiological responses from the victim. When CPR is performed correctly, one of the key indicators of effectiveness is the rise and fall of the chest, which signals that air is being properly ventilated into the lungs. Additionally, feeling a pulse return is a critical sign, indicating that the heart has begun to pump blood effectively again.

Both the chest rising and falling and the presence of a pulse are direct evidence of circulation and ventilation improvements. This is paramount because the ultimate goal of CPR is to restore effective breathing and circulation to the individual suffering from cardiac arrest. Observing these changes confirms that chest compressions are generating blood flow and that rescue breaths are successfully delivering oxygen to the lungs.

Other options may indicate some level of response from the patient, but they do not provide the concrete physiological evidence of effective CPR. For instance, while making a noise or showing signs of waking up could be positive signs, they do not necessarily correlate with the immediate effectiveness of the CPR being administered.