For optimal chest compression depth in adults, how far should the chest be compressed?

The optimal chest compression depth in adults during cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is critical for ensuring effective blood circulation. The specific recommendation is to compress the chest to a depth of 2 to 2.4 inches. This depth is sufficient to generate adequate pressure within the thoracic cavity, which helps to effectively pump blood to vital organs, particularly the brain and heart. Compressing within this range allows for both effective circulation while minimizing the risk of causing injury to the chest wall or internal structures.

In contrast, compressing the chest to depths less than 2 inches (such as 1 to 1.5 inches or 1.5 to 2 inches) may not provide sufficient pressure to maintain blood flow, potentially leading to ineffective resuscitation efforts. Similarly, compressing beyond 2.4 inches (like 2.5 to 3 inches) can increase the risk of injuring the patient, which can complicate ongoing resuscitation efforts or lead to further trauma. Thus, the specified depth of 2 to 2.4 inches strikes the correct balance between effectiveness and safety during CPR procedures.