What is the appropriate depth for chest compressions on an infant?

The appropriate depth for chest compressions on an infant is about 1 ½ inches. This depth is crucial for effectively compressing the heart to create enough blood flow during cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Infants have smaller bodies and less chest wall thickness compared to adults, so the recommended depth ensures that compressions are both safe and effective.

Compressing to the correct depth helps to create sufficient pressure to circulate blood without causing injury to the infant's ribs or other internal structures. This guideline is based on established resuscitation practices to optimize outcomes in emergencies involving infants, thereby supporting the need for precise adherence to these recommendations.

The other options suggest depths that exceed the safe and effective range for an infant. Compressing too deeply can lead to serious injuries, while compressing too shallow would not generate the necessary blood flow for effective CPR.