8/10/23, 9:59 AM Chest compression technique for adults - UpToDate

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Chest compression technique for adults

To perform chest compressions, the rescuer places the heel of one hand in the center of the chest over
the lower (caudad) portion of the sternum and the heel of their other hand atop the first. The rescuer's
own chest should be directly above their hands. This enables the rescuer to use their body weight to
compress the patient's chest, rather than just the muscles of their arms, which can fatigue quickly.

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8/10/23, 9:59 AM Chest compression technique for adults - UpToDate

See UpToDate topics for further details about basic life support for adults.

From: Recognition and management of cardiac emergencies. In: Emergency Response Management for Athletic Trainers, 2nd ed,
Miller M, Berry D (Eds), Wolters Kluwer 2015. Copyright © 2015. Reproduced with permission from Wolters Kluwer Health.

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