What should be the depth of chest compressions when performing CPR on a child (1–10 years)?

What should be the depth of chest compressions when performing CPR on a child (1–10 years)?

• A. 2 inches deep
• B. 1 inch deep
• C. 3 inches deep
• D. 1.5 inches deep

Answer: (A)

For children in the 1–10 year range, you aim for chest compressions about one-third of the chest’s depth, which is roughly 2 inches (about 5 cm). This depth provides enough pressure to move blood with each push, helping circulation, while staying within a safe range for a child. Going deeper, like around 3 inches, increases the risk of rib and organ injury, and compressing only 1 inch or 1.5 inches would likely not generate sufficient blood flow. Maintaining roughly 2 inches consistently helps maximize effectiveness and safety during pediatric CPR.

For children in the 1–10 year range, you aim for chest compressions about one-third of the chest’s depth, which is roughly 2 inches (about 5 cm). This depth provides enough pressure to move blood with each push, helping circulation, while staying within a safe range for a child. Going deeper, like around 3 inches, increases the risk of rib and organ injury, and compressing only 1 inch or 1.5 inches would likely not generate sufficient blood flow. Maintaining roughly 2 inches consistently helps maximize effectiveness and safety during pediatric CPR.