what's the primary difference between compressions on an adult vs. a small child?

The primary difference is how deep and how hard you push: adult compressions are deeper and use more force (usually two hands), while small children need gentler compressions at about one‑third of the chest depth (often with one hand) to avoid injury.

Key CPR Compression Differences

• Adults generally need compressions about 2–2.4 inches (5–6 cm) deep with firm force using two hands on the center of the chest.

• Small children typically need about 2 inches (around one‑third of the chest depth) with less force, often using one hand instead of two.

• The goal is still effective blood flow, but a child’s chest wall and ribs are more fragile , so too much force can cause injury.

In simple terms: same spot on the chest, same rhythm, but smaller body = shallower, gentler compressions. Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.