DEPTH OF COMPRESSION

This is how far you deflect (compress) the chest. The AHA guidelines require a compression to be 1.5 – 2 inches deep.

Optimal blood flow and tissue oxygenation is achieved when compressions are performed to at least 1.5 inches, and the likelihood of injuring the victim increases with compressions greater than 2 inches.

Assure correct hand position and correct grip, correct posture with arms straight, and pressure exerted by the body. Push firmly and without hesitation to the correct depth.

SmartMan© records the direct deflection of the chest. Depth is digitally sampled 100 times per second.

More than half of all people press too deep using the resistance of the back of the manikin as a sign to release pressure. This is not correct.
20% of people perform a large number compressions that are too shallow.
It takes practice and concentration to produce consistent compressions at the correct depth.