During CPR of an adult client, while performing chest compressions, the sternum will be depressed to?

Appeared in: SCTIMST Staff Nurse - 2015 (Set-A)

Explanation

According to the latest CPR guidelines (AHA), the correct chest compression depth for an adult is at least 2 inches (5 cm) but should not exceed 2.4 inches (6 cm).
The option '2 to 2 1/2 inches' is the only range provided that accurately reflects this critical recommendation.
This specific depth is necessary to generate sufficient intrathoracic pressure, which in turn creates blood flow and perfusion to vital organs like the brain and heart during cardiac arrest.

Option A: This depth is far too shallow and will not generate sufficient intrathoracic pressure to circulate blood, rendering the CPR ineffective.
Option B: This depth is also significantly too shallow for an adult and would fail to provide adequate perfusion to the brain and heart.
Option D: While the upper limit of this range touches the minimum requirement, the range starts at 1.5 inches, which is too shallow. Compressions must be consistently at least 2 inches deep to be effective.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain High-quality CPR: Chest compression depth for adults as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Performing high-quality chest compressions with the correct depth and rate is the single most important determinant of patient survival from cardiac arrest.
Nurses should advocate for and use CPR feedback devices whenever available. These devices provide real-time data on compression depth, rate, and recoil, helping to ensure guidelines are met.
What if? If the patient were a child (age 1 to puberty), the compression depth would be 'about 2 inches (5 cm),' which is one-third of the chest's anterior-posterior diameter. For an infant, it is 'about 1.5 inches (4 cm).'.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key elements of the question: 'CPR', 'adult client', and 'chest compression depth'.
This is a factual recall question that requires knowledge of Basic Life Support (BLS) guidelines.
Recall the standard recommendation for adult chest compression depth, which is 2 to 2.4 inches (5 to 6 cm).
Carefully evaluate each option to see which one best aligns with this standard.
Eliminate options that are clearly too shallow (1/2 to 1 inch) or that start below the minimum required depth (1 1/2 to 2 inches).
Select the option '2 to 2 1/2 inches' as it is the only one that correctly encompasses the recommended depth.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics(2024) — Volume 1 p. 610-612

Practise the full SCTIMST Staff Nurse - 2015 (Set-A)

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.