Lifeguard Recertification Practice Exam

When performing chest compressions on an infant during CPR, proper hand placement is essential for ensuring effective compressions while minimizing the risk of injury. The correct technique involves placing one hand on the infant's forehead to maintain an open airway and using two or three fingers placed on the center of the chest, just below the nipple line, to deliver compressions.

This approach is advantageous for infants because their anatomical structure is delicate, and using fewer fingers allows for greater control and reduces the risk of harming the ribs or internal organs. Additionally, compressions should be delivered at a rate of about 100 to 120 compressions per minute and should compress to a depth of about one and a half inches.

Understanding how to properly position the hands is crucial for effective CPR, especially in infants, where the technique differs from that used for older children and adults. Correct hand placement not only ensures adequate blood flow during a cardiac event but also helps maintain the safety and integrity of the infant's body during the procedure.