AHA BLS for Healthcare Providers Practice Test 2026 - Free Basic Life Support Questions and Study Guide

In infant CPR, the correct compression depth is approximately 1.5 inches (4 cm). This depth is crucial because it allows for effective blood circulation to the vital organs and increases the likelihood of a successful resuscitation. The guideline emphasizes that compressions should be at least one-third the depth of the chest for infants, which aligns with the 1.5 inches recommendation. Compressing to this depth ensures adequate compression for the heart to pump blood effectively, maximizing the chances of restoring a normal heartbeat and improving oxygen delivery to the vital organs during a cardiac emergency.

It's also important to remember that compressions for infants should be performed at a rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute, and the technique used should be appropriate for their size and age to prevent injury while still being effective.