How can we assess the effectiveness of CPR in the ICU?

To assess the effectiveness of CPR in the ICU, the primary indicator is the observation of chest compressions in conjunction with monitoring the return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC). This method allows healthcare providers to ascertain whether the chest compressions are being performed adequately, which is essential for maintaining blood flow to vital organs during a cardiac arrest.

Additionally, the return of spontaneous circulation signifies that the heart has resumed effective pumping, indicating that the CPR efforts were successful in restoring some level of circulation. Therefore, closely monitoring these two factors—effective chest compressions and the achievement of ROSC—gives a comprehensive view of CPR's effectiveness in the moment.

Other options do not provide a reliable means of assessing CPR effectiveness. Directly asking the patient questions is not feasible during cardiac arrest, as the patient is unresponsive. Checking for chest compressions alone does not account for the critical outcome of ROSC, and simply measuring vital signs after CPR has concluded fails to capture real-time effectiveness during the resuscitation process. Thus, a combination of monitoring compressions and assessing for ROSC is the most effective approach.