What is the proper technique for compressions on an infant during single-provider CPR?

The proper technique for performing chest compressions on an infant during single-provider CPR involves the two-finger technique. This method is designed to provide effective compressions while also ensuring safety for the infant.

When using the two-finger technique, you place your index and middle fingers together on the center of the infant's chest, just below the nipple line. This allows for precise control and minimizes the risk of injury compared to using the palms of your hands. The depth of the compressions should be about one-third of the chest's depth, which is approximately 1.5 inches (4 cm) for infants. Compressions should be delivered at a rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute, ensuring that the technique allows for recoil between compressions to facilitate blood flow.

The other methods mentioned, such as using one hand over the other, the thumb technique, or fingertip technique, are not appropriate for single-provider CPR in infants. In particular, the thumb technique typically refers to a scenario involving two rescuers, where one rescuer uses two thumbs to perform compressions while the other provides breaths. In single-provider situations with infants, the two-finger approach is universally recommended for its effectiveness and safety.