Nurse Harry is providing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) to a child, age 4. the nurse should:
A. Perform only two-person CPR
B. Deliver 12 breaths/minute
C. Place two fingers on the sternum, press down about 1.5 inches deep
D. Use the heel of one hand for sternal compressions at least 2 inches deep
Correct Answer: D. Use the heel of one hand for sternal compressions
The nurse should use the heel of one hand at the center of the chest, then place the heel of the other hand on top of the first hand and lace fingers together and give 30 compressions that are about 2 inches deep. For a child, compress the chest at least one-third the depth of the chest. This may be less than two inches for small children but will be approximately two inches for larger children (4-5 cm).
Option A: For a small child, a two-person rescue may be inappropriate. If the child does not respond and is not breathing (or if only gasping), have the second rescuer call 911/EMS and get an AED.
Option B: For children, the compression to breath ratio is 15:2 for all age groups. If you cannot feel a pulse (or if you are unsure), begin CPR by doing 15 compressions followed by two breaths. If you can feel a pulse but the pulse rate is less than 60 beats per minute, you should begin CPR. This rate is too slow for a child.
Option C: The nurse uses 2 fingers to give 30 quick compressions that are each about 1.5 inches deep appropriate for infants. Place 2 fingers just below that line on the breastbone and push down hard on the breastbone 1½ inches toward the backbone. Let the chest come back to its normal position after each compression. Compressions are done fast at a rate of 100 per minute.