Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) Practice 2026 – Comprehensive All-in-One Guide to Master Your CPR Skills!

The recommended compression depth for adults during CPR is at least 2 inches. This guideline is based on research indicating that compressions of this depth are effective in generating adequate blood flow during cardiac arrest. Compressions that are too shallow may not provide sufficient circulation to vital organs, particularly the brain and heart, which are critically dependent on effective blood movement during resuscitation efforts.

The depth of at least 2 inches allows for the necessary mechanical effect to compress the heart sufficiently and facilitate improved blood perfusion. According to the latest CPR guidelines, maintaining this depth, along with proper compression rate and allowing full chest recoil, contributes significantly to the effectiveness of the resuscitation process.

In contrast, depths that are significantly less than 2 inches may not be effective, as they do not meet the physiological requirements needed to promote adequate blood flow. The standard emphasizes the importance of not exceeding depths of 3 inches to avoid potential injury to the patient’s thoracic structure. Overall, compressing to a depth of at least 2 inches aligns with established best practices in CPR to ensure the best possible outcome for cardiac arrest victims.