What is the recommended compression depth for effective CPR?

The recommended compression depth for effective CPR is at least 2 inches. This standard is based on research and guidelines that indicate this depth is necessary to create adequate blood flow and pressure during chest compressions, which is critical for delivering oxygenated blood to the vital organs. Compressions that reach this depth help to effectively increase the chances of restoring a perfusing rhythm in a patient experiencing cardiac arrest.

Compressing the chest to a depth of at least 2 inches ensures that enough volume is displaced from the heart with each compression, facilitating better circulation. This recommendation is particularly relevant in adult patients, as their physical characteristics may require deeper compressions to overcome the rigidity of the chest wall and reach the heart effectively.

The other provided depth options either fall short of the recommended guideline or exceed practical limits. For instance, a depth of 1 inch is insufficient to generate adequate blood flow, while depths of 3 and 4 inches could risk injury to the chest, especially in adults, since it may lead to rib fractures or other complications. Therefore, maintaining a compression depth of at least 2 inches strikes the right balance between effectiveness and safety during CPR.