During CPR, fingers are placed at the point where the ______ and the ______ join.

During CPR, fingers are placed at the point where the ______ and the ______ join.

• A. Clavicle and sternum
• B. Ribs and spine
• C. Spine and pelvis
• D. Sternum and ribs

Answer: (D)

CPR chest compressions are delivered on the sternum because the heart lies directly behind it, so pressing on this central chest area maximizes blood flow with each squeeze. The best spot is where the sternum meets the ribs—the anterior costal junction on the lower half of the sternum—providing a solid surface over the heart. Pressing elsewhere, such as over the clavicle, back along the spine, or over the pelvis, is not aligned with the heart and can reduce efficacy or cause injury. Avoid the lower tip of the sternum (the xiphoid process) to prevent injury, and use the heel of the hand to compress about 2 inches in adults.

CPR chest compressions are delivered on the sternum because the heart lies directly behind it, so pressing on this central chest area maximizes blood flow with each squeeze. The best spot is where the sternum meets the ribs—the anterior costal junction on the lower half of the sternum—providing a solid surface over the heart. Pressing elsewhere, such as over the clavicle, back along the spine, or over the pelvis, is not aligned with the heart and can reduce efficacy or cause injury. Avoid the lower tip of the sternum (the xiphoid process) to prevent injury, and use the heel of the hand to compress about 2 inches in adults.