For adult CPR, place the heel of your hand in the center of the chest on the lower half of the breastbone (sternum), roughly between or just below the nipples, and press straight down at 100–120 compressions per minute. This spot is the correct compression point because it lies over the heart while reducing the risk of injuring the ribs or upper abdomen.

Adult CPR: Hand position and compression point

  • Kneel beside the person on a firm surface, chest facing up.
  • Find the center of the chest between the nipples, on the lower half of the sternum (breastbone), not over the ribs or the very bottom of the chest.
  • Place the heel of one hand on this point, then place the heel of your other hand directly on top.
  • Interlace or lift your fingers so they do not touch the chest (only the hand heels should press).
  • Lock your elbows, keep your arms straight, and position your shoulders directly above your hands so your body weight pushes straight down.

Compression details for adults:

  • Push hard: compress the chest at least 2 inches (about 5 cm) deep, but not more than 2.4 inches if you are trained.
  • Push fast: 100–120 compressions per minute.
  • Allow the chest to fully recoil after each compression, without leaning on it.

If you are not formally trained, many guidelines advise doing “hands-only” CPR: continuous chest compressions in this position at 100–120 per minute until help takes over.

Children and infants (quick note)

Exact technique changes with size, but the compression point stays at the center of the chest over the lower half of the sternum:

  • Children: center of chest, lower half of sternum; usually use 1 hand, or 2 hands for larger children.
  • Infants: just below the nipple line in the center of the chest; use 2 fingers and compress about one‑third of chest depth (~1.5 inches).

Critical safety note

  • CPR is physically demanding and can cause injuries even when done correctly, but correct hand position on the lower half of the sternum and vertical, straight‑down compressions are key to maximizing benefit and minimizing harm.
  • Whenever possible, follow current local resuscitation guidelines and get certified training; online videos and courses as of 2025–2026 reinforce the same center‑of‑chest, lower‑sternum hand placement described above.