A Step-By-Step Guide To Performing CPR

Interlocking Hands For Compressions

When performing CPR on children and adults, providers should use interlocking hands for compressions. This technique creates more powerful compressions and helps center the motion of each compression so it is delivered in the correct location. To correctly place the hands for CPR, the provider should start by placing the heel of one hand on the patient's sternum (breastbone) at the center of the chest. The other hand should be placed on top, and the fingers of both of the provider's hands should be intertwined to keep them off of the patient's chest. Using interlocking hands, the provider should then deliver the compressions by pressing straight down into the patient's chest. If the provider has difficulty interlocking their fingers, it is okay to simply hold the fingers in an upward position so they are off of the patient's chest. Providers with arthritis or small wrists can safely administer compressions by holding the wrist of the hand positioned on the patient's chest with their other hand.

A recent study suggests CPR providers deliver deeper compressions using their right hand as the bottom hand (the hand in contact with the patient's sternum) when they are on the patient's right side. The research found when providers are positioned on the patient's left side, they give deeper compressions when they place their left hand on the patient's sternum as the bottom hand. Experts recommend that CPR providers approach the patient from the side of their dominant hand. Left-handed providers should position themselves on the patient's left side, and right-handed providers should position themselves on the patient's right side. Providers should place their dominant hand on the patient's sternum, and their non-dominant hand should be placed on top.

Uncover information on the most common mistakes made when giving CPR next.