Do chest compressions properly — know where to push, how deep, how fast, and that pauses cost the most.
Four numbers and one position
How to do compressions
Unresponsive, not breathing normally, 911 on speaker — now comes pressing on the chest. That's CPR; guidelines call each press a compression — you'll see both words in the course, and they mean the same thing.
Kneel close at their side. Put the heel of one hand on the lower half of the breastbone — the center of the chest. The other hand goes on top, fingers interlaced, so you don't press on the ribs. Arms straight, shoulders directly over the chest.
Depth: at least 5 cm (2 inches) and no more than 6 (2.4 inches). Rate: 100 to 120 compressions per minute. After each compression the chest must recoil fully — come all the way back up — so don't lean on it between compressions. Keep pauses to a minimum: an interruption costs more than imperfect technique.
Two things people often get wrong. If the person is on a bed, don't move them to the floor: a hard surface is better, but moving them takes time. Start right there and push deeper if needed to make up for the soft mattress. If clothing hides the breastbone, move it aside or take it off.
Next is the pace trainer. It measures one thing: whether your compressions land in the 100–120 per minute range. It doesn't and can't check depth, full recoil, or hand position. Passing it means you remember the steps and hold the pace — not that you can do chest compressions properly: for that, you need a manikin and an instructor.
Lesson notes
How to do compressions
Unresponsive, not breathing normally, 911 on speaker — now comes pressing on the chest. That's CPR; guidelines call each press a compression — you'll see both words in the course, and they mean the same thing.
Kneel close at their side. Put the heel of one hand on the lower half of the breastbone — the center of the chest. The other hand goes on top, fingers interlaced, so you don't press on the ribs. Arms straight, shoulders directly over the chest.
Depth: at least 5 cm (2 inches) and no more than 6 (2.4 inches). Rate: 100 to 120 compressions per minute. After each compression the chest must recoil fully — come all the way back up — so don't lean on it between compressions. Keep pauses to a minimum: an interruption costs more than imperfect technique.
Two things people often get wrong. If the person is on a bed, don't move them to the floor: a hard surface is better, but moving them takes time. Start right there and push deeper if needed to make up for the soft mattress. If clothing hides the breastbone, move it aside or take it off.
Next is the pace trainer. It measures one thing: whether your compressions land in the 100–120 per minute range. It doesn't and can't check depth, full recoil, or hand position. Passing it means you remember the steps and hold the pace — not that you can do chest compressions properly: for that, you need a manikin and an instructor.