What is the chest compression depth for a child during CPR?

The chest compression depth for a child during CPR is crucial for ensuring effective blood flow during resuscitation efforts. The correct depth is approximately 2 inches (or 5 centimeters). This depth is recommended because it allows for sufficient compression of the heart and promotes adequate blood circulation to vital organs during the compressions.

Proper technique involves using the heel of one hand (or two hands, depending on the size of the child) to compress the center of the chest, and maintaining this depth ensures that the compressions are effective. Guidelines emphasize that compressions should also be at a rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute, reinforcing the importance of depth in relation to both the rate and quality of CPR performed.

In this context, depths like 1 inch, 1.5 inches, or 2.5 inches do not meet the established standard, as they may not provide the necessary force to achieve effective circulation. Compressions that are too shallow (like 1 inch or 1.5 inches) risk failing to generate sufficient pressure in the thoracic cavity, while too deep (like 2.5 inches) may cause injury to the child's ribs or lungs. Therefore, adhering to the guideline of 2 inches balances effectiveness with