A Step-By-Step Guide To Performing CPR

Compressions Must Be Hard

To effectively pump blood throughout the body, CPR compressions must be hard. Generally, experts suggest individuals performing CPR aim for a depth of 5.5 centimeters (approximately two inches) for each compression. It takes roughly sixty pounds of force to compress the chest by this amount. Compressions deeper than two inches could cause damage to the patient's internal organs, and compressions that are too shallow will be ineffective. If there is doubt about whether the compressions are hard enough, it can be helpful to err on the side of being too forceful. While forceful compressions could break some of the patient's ribs, they may be necessary in order for the patient to live. CPR training courses and practice sessions with CPR dummies are recommended so providers can receive individualized guidance on achieving an appropriate compression depth.

Discover how CPR can be performed on children and babies next.