During CPR, what is the recommended compression depth for a child?

The recommended compression depth for a child during CPR is indeed at least one-third the depth of the chest. This guideline is based on the anatomical structure and physiological responses of children, which differ significantly from adults. For pediatric patients, achieving an adequate depth of compression is crucial for generating enough pressure to facilitate blood flow during cardiac arrest.

The exact depth of one-third of the chest's depth aligns with the recommendations set forth by resuscitation organizations, which emphasize the importance of proper technique to maximize the effectiveness of compressions. Given that a child’s chest is shallower than an adult's, the one-third depth ensures that compressions are deep enough to achieve effective ventilation and perfusion without causing injury.

Understanding this specific measurement helps ensure that caregivers and healthcare providers can administer CPR effectively, thereby increasing the potential for a positive outcome in a pediatric cardiac arrest scenario. This focus on depth, along with proper rate and rhythm, forms the foundation of effective CPR techniques for children.