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Effective chest compressions are crucial in CPR because they help maintain blood flow to vital organs during cardiac arrest. When the heart stops beating effectively, blood cannot circulate throughout the body, which can lead to organ damage and death within minutes. Chest compressions simulate the heart's pumping action, pushing blood through the circulatory system and delivering oxygen to essential organs such as the brain and heart itself. This action increases the chances of survival and improves the likelihood of a positive outcome until emergency medical services arrive or until the person is revived.

The other options focus on different aspects of emergency care but do not capture the primary purpose of chest compressions. Providing oxygen directly to the lungs, for instance, is more related to the administration of rescue breaths rather than compressions. The recovery position, while important in some situations, pertains to care after the initial life-threatening events and does not relate to the effectiveness of compressions during CPR. Lastly, reducing the risk of choking does not address the primary function of compressions in maintaining circulation and oxygenation during cardiac emergencies.