What should you avoid doing between compressions?

The principle behind avoiding leaning on the patient's chest between compressions is critical for maintaining proper chest recoil. Full chest recoil allows the heart to refill with blood, which is essential for ensuring effective circulation during cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). If you lean on the chest, you impede this natural recoil of the thoracic cavity, which can reduce the effectiveness of the compressions and ultimately hinder blood flow to vital organs.

When performing compressions, it is important to allow the chest to fully return to its normal position to maximize blood flow. Maintaining proper techniques during CPR not only optimizes the effectiveness of compressions but also enhances the likelihood of a positive outcome for the patient. Other actions, such as counting compressions or taking a deep breath, do not interfere with the process in the same significant way that leaning on the chest does. Changing positions may be necessary in certain situations, but doing so should be done carefully to ensure continuous and effective compressions.