What is the recommended depth for chest compressions in adults?

The recommended depth for chest compressions in adults is 2 inches. This depth is crucial because it allows for sufficient blood flow to be generated during cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). When performing compressions, the aim is to compress the chest enough to create adequate pressure in the thoracic cavity, which facilitates effective blood circulation to vital organs, especially the heart and brain.

Research and guidelines from authoritative sources such as the American Heart Association (AHA) emphasize that compressions should be hard and fast, at a rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute, and at a depth of 2 to 2.4 inches for adults. This depth ensures that the heart can adequately fill and expel blood with each compression, maximizing the chance of resuscitation until advanced medical help can take over. Proper technique and depth are critical to increase the chances of survival in a cardiac emergency, which is why adhering to this guideline is essential for anyone performing CPR.