How deep should chest compressions be for an adult?

How deep should chest compressions be for an adult?

• A. 1/2 To 1 Inch
• B. 1-1/2 To 2 Inches
• C. 2 To 3 Inches
• D. 3 To 4 Inches

Answer: (B)

The depth of adult chest compressions should be about 1.5 to 2 inches (roughly 5 cm). This range is deep enough to create the pressure needed to push blood through the body during CPR, while staying within a safe limit to minimize injury. Compressing less than 1.5 inches tends to produce insufficient blood flow, whereas going deeper than about 2 inches increases the risk of injury to the chest or internal organs. While delivering compressions, maintain good form—hands in the center of the chest, pressure with straight arms, and allow full chest recoil between pushes—at a rate of about 100 to 120 per minute.

The depth of adult chest compressions should be about 1.5 to 2 inches (roughly 5 cm). This range is deep enough to create the pressure needed to push blood through the body during CPR, while staying within a safe limit to minimize injury. Compressing less than 1.5 inches tends to produce insufficient blood flow, whereas going deeper than about 2 inches increases the risk of injury to the chest or internal organs. While delivering compressions, maintain good form—hands in the center of the chest, pressure with straight arms, and allow full chest recoil between pushes—at a rate of about 100 to 120 per minute.