Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) Practice 2025 - Free CPR Practice Questions and Study Tips.

In adult CPR, the correct hand positioning is critical for effective chest compressions, which are vital to maintaining blood circulation during cardiac arrest. The correct method involves placing the heel of one hand on the lower half of the sternum, with the other hand positioned on top of it. This positioning allows for adequate depth and force during compressions while minimizing the risk of injury to the ribs or sternum.

Placing the hands in this manner ensures that compressions are directed straight down into the chest, optimizing blood flow to the heart and brain. The lower half of the sternum is selected specifically because this area allows for stable compression mechanics and helps to deliver the necessary force without causing harm to critical structures.

Other positioning options, such as interlocking fingers above the sternum, would not provide the needed direct pressure to promote blood circulation effectively. Having both hands on the upper chest or one hand on the abdomen would either be ineffective or could result in complications, as these positions are not conducive to delivering proper compressions that achieve the recommended depth and rate for adult CPR.