When providing chest compressions for a 6-month-old infant weighing 17 pounds, what is the appropriate compression depth?

The appropriate compression depth for an infant, specifically one who is around 6 months old, is approximately 1½ inches. This depth is crucial for effective chest compressions, ensuring that you generate enough pressure to circulate blood and oxygen to vital organs during cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).

Infants have a more flexible chest wall compared to older children and adults; therefore, compressions must be performed with care to avoid injury. The recommended depth aims to optimize the physiological responses while taking into consideration the anatomical differences in infants. Proper depth also helps in achieving a higher likelihood of maintaining adequate blood flow during the procedure.

Choosing any other depth, such as 1 inch or greater than 1½ inches, could lead to ineffective compressions or risk of causing harm. Therefore, the guideline of 1½ inches is established based on both effectiveness and safety for infant CPR.