Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is vital therapy in cardiac arrest care by lay and trained rescuers. Chest compressions are the key component of CPR. Ventilation and airway management should be secondary to high-quality and continuous chest compressions in patients receiving CPR. Only after the patient has had return of spontaneous circulation or completed a cycle of CPR with defibrillation (if appropriate) should attempts at securing an advanced airway be made. Even then, interruptions of chest compressions should be minimized to maintain cardiocerebral perfusion and increase survival. Finally, the ventilation rate should be no more than 8 to 10 breaths per minute.