The correct hand position for performing CPR is to place the heel of one hand on the center of the chest, specifically on the lower half of the sternum (breastbone), roughly in line with the nipple line. The other hand is placed on top of the first, with fingers interlaced and kept off the chest to avoid injury. Elbows should be locked, arms straight, and the shoulders positioned directly above the hands to use body weight for effective compressions. The correct compression point is the lower half of the sternum, just above where the ribs join the breastbone, avoiding the xiphoid process at the very bottom to prevent injury to internal organs. Compressions should be straight down to a depth of about 2 to 2.4 inches (5 to 6 cm) at a rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute. Key points:
- Hand placement: heel of the hand on the center lower half of the sternum, other hand on top interlaced fingers off the chest.
- Compression depth: 2 to 2.4 inches (5-6 cm).
- Compression rate: 100 to 120 compressions per minute.
- Body position: arms straight, elbows locked, shoulders over hands using body weight for compressions.
This technique maximizes effective blood circulation and increases the chances of survival during cardiac arrest.
