How can you ensure effective chest compressions?

To ensure effective chest compressions during cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), it is essential to keep the elbows straight and position yourself directly over the patient's chest. This technique allows for the most effective transfer of force and ensures that compressions are delivered with adequate depth and regularity, which are vital for maintaining blood flow during cardiac arrest.

When the elbows are kept straight, it provides a more stable and powerful leverage, enabling the individual to apply more force with less fatigue over time. Positioning oneself directly over the chest enhances the ability to compress the sternum to an appropriate depth, typically at least 2 inches for adults, and allows the rescuer to utilize their body weight effectively, contributing to the strength and consistency of each compression.

In addition, this position helps to achieve the recommended compression rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute, which is crucial for optimizing blood circulation during CPR. Being directly over the chest also allows for better alignment of the upper body, which can help maintain a straight vertical line for downward force when compressing, further increasing the effectiveness.

Other approaches, such as keeping elbows bent or pressing at shallow depths, can lead to inadequate blood flow and potentially harm the patient, undermining the life-saving goals