When should chest compressions be interrupted?

Chest compressions should be interrupted only for specific critical interventions, which include providing ventilations if you're performing rescue breaths, using an Automated External Defibrillator (AED), or when emergency responders arrive to take over. These interruptions are necessary to ensure that the individual receives additional support as quickly as possible without unnecessarily prolonging the time compressions are paused.

For instance, when utilizing an AED, it’s essential to stop compressions while analyzing the heart rhythm to ensure an accurate assessment. Similarly, if the rescuer is trained to provide rescue breaths, a brief pause in compressions is required to administer those breaths effectively.

Other options suggest intervals for assessment or only allowing interruptions when the person shows signs of life. However, continual assessment every minute is not practical in a high-pressure situation where time is crucial for the victim's survival. Waiting for signs of life before interrupting compressions can delay critical interventions that could save the person’s life. Therefore, the correct approach is to pause only when necessary to facilitate effective resuscitation and treatment.