How is the effectiveness of CPR commonly measured?

The effectiveness of CPR is commonly measured by the return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC). This term refers to the restoration of a pulse and normal blood flow after cardiac arrest, which is the primary goal of initiating CPR. When effective chest compressions are performed correctly, they can help maintain some blood flow to vital organs during the cardiac arrest period, increasing the chances of successful resuscitation when normal heart rhythms are restored. ROSC indicates that the perfusion to the body's tissues has been reestablished, which is crucial for survival and recovery of the patient.

Monitoring the patient's heart rate alone does not provide a comprehensive assessment of CPR effectiveness, especially during the ongoing efforts. Blood glucose levels are unrelated to the immediate effectiveness of CPR, and while a patient’s level of consciousness may provide information about their neurological status post-resuscitation, it does not directly measure the effectiveness of CPR during the process itself. Therefore, ROSC serves as the most reliable indicator of successful CPR efforts in clinical settings.