When performing high-quality CPR on a child, what is the correct depth of compressions?

When performing high-quality CPR on a child, the correct depth of compressions is 2 inches (5 cm). This depth is critical because it allows for effective blood circulation during the compression phase of CPR, helping to maintain blood flow to vital organs, especially the heart and brain.

Using an adequate depth ensures that the compressions are forceful enough to create the necessary pressure to push blood through the circulatory system. While the target depth is generally greater for adults, in children, compressions need to be deep enough to make a significant impact while still being mindful of the risk of injury due to over-compression, as children's bodies are smaller and more fragile.

The guidelines set by the American Heart Association emphasize precision in compression depth because it correlates directly with survival rates following cardiac arrest. In summary, deep compressions are essential for facilitating effective perfusion in a child, with the 2-inch depth being the optimal standard for performing CPR in this age group.