Chest compression method, prone position procedure steps
Mar 16, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Shuwen
Introduction
Chest compression, generally referring to external chest cardiac compression, mainly involves placing the patient on a hard surface or board, locating the correct compression site, and then applying pressure to the chest. It should be noted that external chest compressions may easily cause fractures of the sternum or ribs. Therefore, it is recommended to perform this procedure under the guidance of a qualified medical professional to avoid causing harm to the body.
Chest compression, commonly known as external cardiac massage, primarily involves placing the patient on a hard surface such as the floor or a rigid board and then applying rhythmic pressure to the chest at a specific location. The detailed procedure is as follows:
1. Lay the patient flat on a firm surface such as a wooden board or the ground. Loosen or remove the patient’s clothing to ensure an open airway.
2. Locate the compression site, which is typically at the junction of the lower one-third and upper two-thirds of the sternum.
3. Place the heel of one hand on the compression point, and place the heel of the other hand on top of the first. Keep fingers raised upward, arms straight, and use your body weight through both arms and hands to apply downward pressure vertically onto the sternum.
4. Depress the sternum 4 to 5 centimeters, then immediately release the pressure while keeping your hands in contact with the chest, allowing the chest wall to return naturally to its original position.
5. Maintain a compression rate of 100–120 compressions per minute. After every 30 compressions, deliver 2 rescue breaths. Repeat this cycle five times.
It should be noted that external chest compressions may easily cause fractures of the sternum or ribs. Therefore, it is recommended to perform this procedure under the guidance of a medical professional to avoid causing physical injury.
