To what depth should you compress the chest during CPR?

During CPR, it is essential to compress the chest to an appropriate depth to effectively circulate blood and oxygen to vital organs. The correct depth for chest compressions in adults is actually between 2 to 2.5 inches. This depth allows for adequate compression of the heart, creating sufficient pressure to propel blood throughout the body.

Compressing the chest to a depth of 1.5-2 inches would be insufficient to generate the necessary blood flow during resuscitation, which could result in lower chances of survival. Similarly, depths beyond 2.5 inches might be too deep, potentially causing injury to the ribs or organs and resulting in ineffective compressions due to poor recoil.

Therefore, understanding and applying the guideline of 2 to 2.5 inches for compressions is vital for maximizing the effectiveness of CPR and increasing the chances of restoring a sustainable heartbeat in an emergency situation.