An adult rescuer begins external chest compressions on an unresponsive pulseless victim. The correct landmark for placing the heel of the hand during adult chest compressions is:
- A Over the xiphisternum
- B Left parasternal border at the fourth intercostal space
- C Centre of the chest, on the lower half of the sternum ✓
- D Upper half of the sternum between the clavicles
Correct answer: C. Centre of the chest, on the lower half of the sternum
Explanation
Guidelines specify compressing the centre of the chest, on the lower half of the sternum, allowing full recoil without lifting the hands between compressions. Compressing over the xiphisternum risks liver laceration, and the left parasternal position has no physiological advantage. The upper sternal area overlies a thinner compressible segment and transmits force poorly. Correct hand position combined with adequate depth of 5 to 6 cm and rate of 100 to 120 per minute defines high quality compressions.
Reference: AHA Guidelines for CPR and Emergency Cardiovascular Care, 2020 ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.