What is the primary purpose of CPR?

The primary purpose of CPR, or cardiopulmonary resuscitation, is to restore breathing and circulation in a person who has suffered a cardiac arrest or respiratory failure. During such emergencies, the heart may stop beating, and breathing may cease, leading to a rapid decline in the person's condition. By performing CPR, a lifeguard or responder can help maintain blood flow to the brain and other vital organs, which is crucial for preserving life until professional medical help arrives.

Other options touch on important medical responses, but they do not capture the essential goal of CPR. For instance, providing immediate first aid for wounds is important but does not directly address the critical need for circulation and breathing restoration during cardiac emergencies. Alleviating discomfort and stabilizing fractures are also important aspects of first aid and emergency care, but they do not serve the immediate life-saving purpose that CPR is designed for. Thus, understanding the role of CPR in emergency situations emphasizes its importance in restoring life-sustaining functions.