CPR Chest Compression Technique: Proper Hand Placement and Effective Execution

When performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), correct hand positioning is crucial for effectiveness. The recommended compression site is the center of the chest, specifically the lower half of the sternum, which is generally located midway between the two nipples. This area provides optimal access to the heart and allows for efficient blood circulation during compressions.

Step-by-Step Guide to Performing Chest Compressions

To begin, ensure the patient is lying flat on a firm surface. The rescuer should kneel beside the patient's chest. Place the heel of one hand on the lower sternum, midway between the nipples, and place the other hand on top of the first, interlocking your fingers. Make sure only the heels of your hands are in contact with the chest—your fingers should be lifted off the chest wall to avoid applying pressure to the ribs.

Using your upper body weight, begin compressing the chest at a steady rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute. This rhythm helps maintain effective circulation. If there are multiple rescuers present, one person can call emergency services while another begins chest compressions, and a third can prepare to deliver rescue breaths if trained to do so.

Key Tips for Sustained and Effective CPR

Chest compressions can be physically demanding, and fatigue often sets in after 1–2 minutes. If additional helpers are available, it's best to switch rescuers every couple of minutes to maintain the quality of compressions. Each compression should be deep enough to depress the chest 5–6 centimeters (approximately 2 inches), allowing full chest recoil before the next compression. This ensures the heart refills with blood between compressions, maximizing the chances of successful resuscitation.

Remember, high-quality CPR includes not only correct hand placement but also maintaining the right pace and depth, minimizing interruptions, and ensuring proper chest recoil. These steps are vital in increasing the survival chances of someone experiencing cardiac arrest.