For infants, what is the recommended depth of compressions?

The recommended depth of compressions for infants is at least one-third the depth of the chest, which is approximately 1.5 inches. This guideline is based on the understanding that effective chest compressions are crucial for maintaining blood flow during cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).

In infants, the chest is relatively small and the compressions must be sufficient to create adequate pressure to circulate blood but also gentle enough to avoid causing injury. The recommendation of one-third the chest depth is designed to ensure that compressions are both effective and safe for this vulnerable age group.

By compressing to this specified depth, the caregiver can maximize the chances of restoring effective circulation, which is essential for the survival of an infant in cardiac arrest. This depth allows for the optimal compression of the heart between the sternum and the spine, ensuring that blood is effectively pumped throughout the body.