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May 22, 2013
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CPR in Adults: Positioning Your Hands for Chest Compressions


Picture of positioning the hands for chest compressions

If an adult or child is not breathing normally, find the compression landmark.

  • Kneel next to the person. Use your fingers to locate the end of the person's breastbone, where the ribs come together. Place two fingers at the tip of the breastbone.
  • Place the heel of the other hand right above your fingers (on the side closest to the person's face).
  • Use both hands to give compressions. Stack your other hand on top of the one that you just put in position. Lace the fingers of both hands together, and raise your fingers so they do not touch the chest.
ByHealthwise Staff
Primary Medical ReviewerAdam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical ReviewerSteven L. Schneider, MD - Family Medicine
Last RevisedApril 28, 2010

eMedicineHealth Medical Reference from Healthwise

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