What depth should chest compressions reach during CPR?

Chest compressions during CPR should ideally reach a depth of at least 2 inches. This depth is critical for generating sufficient pressure to create adequate blood flow during the compressions, which is vital for perfusing the heart and brain in a cardiac arrest situation. Compressing to this depth helps ensure that the heart is sufficiently squeezed, facilitating effective circulation of oxygenated blood to vital organs.

Additionally, the recommendation of a depth of at least 2 inches is aligned with guidelines established by organizations such as the American Heart Association, which focus on maximizing the effectiveness of CPR in adult patients. Compressions that fall short of this depth might not provide enough pressure to move blood effectively through the circulatory system, potentially delaying recovery or worsening outcomes.

Greater depths beyond 2 inches or insufficient depths may compromise the effectiveness of CPR, thus reinforcing the importance of adhering to the recommended compression depth for optimal patient outcomes.