how deep do you have to press when performing chest compressions on a child?

For a child, chest compressions should push the chest down about one-third of its depth , which is roughly 2 inches or 5 cm.

Key CPR depth facts

• For children (from about 1 year to puberty), recommended compression depth is at least one-third of the chest’s front-to-back (anteroposterior) diameter.

• In practice, this is usually described as about 2 inches (5 cm) deep.

• Let the chest fully recoil between compressions and aim for a rate of 100–120 compressions per minute.

Simple way to remember it

• Look at the child’s chest from the side and imagine the full thickness from front to back.

• Press straight down so the breastbone moves about one-third of that thickness, which for most children looks like a firm, visible push down of around 2 inches.

Important safety notes

• If you are ever unsure, it is better to give CPR than to do nothing in a cardiac arrest situation.

• As soon as possible, follow local emergency dispatch instructions or a certified CPR course, since guidelines can be updated over time.