During CPR on a child, where should your hands be placed?

When performing CPR on a child, the correct placement of your hands is over the lower half of the breastbone, also known as the sternum. This positioning is crucial for effective chest compressions, which are designed to pump blood to vital organs. Compressing the lower half of the breastbone ensures that the compressions are delivered at the most effective part of the chest to generate adequate blood flow.

Positioning your hands over the upper half of the breastbone would not provide the right leverage needed for effective compressions and could potentially result in less force being applied. Placing your hands on the stomach or shoulders does not contribute to circulation and would not help in maintaining blood flow during a cardiac event. Therefore, the proper hand placement is essential for maximizing the chances of survival and successful resuscitation in a pediatric patient.