When performing CPR on an adult, what is the correct hand placement?

The correct hand placement for performing CPR on an adult is at the center of the chest, between the nipples. This area, specifically the lower half of the sternum, is vital because it allows for effective chest compressions, which are essential for maintaining blood circulation during cardiac arrest. By compressing the chest in this location, you can directly impact the heart, helping to force blood out to the brain and vital organs.

Proper hand placement maximizes the depth and effectiveness of the compressions, which should be performed at a rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute, with a depth of at least 2 inches. This technique is recommended in CPR guidelines as it targets the heart while also minimizing the risk of injury to the ribs or internal organs.

Placing hands on the abdomen, left side of the chest, or above the sternum would not provide the same level of direct force on the heart and could hinder the effectiveness of the CPR being administered. Proper positioning and technique are crucial to ensuring the best possible outcome for a person in cardiac arrest.