Board of Legal SpecializationPractice Exam

How should chest compressions be delivered to a patient like Aaliyah, who is showing signs of puberty?

1. At a depth of 1 inch

2. At a depth of less than 2 inches

3. At a depth of at least 2 inches, but not more than 2.4 inches

4. At a depth of 3 inches

The correct answer is: At a depth of at least 2 inches, but not more than 2.4 inches

For a patient like Aaliyah, who is showing signs of puberty, chest compressions should be delivered at a depth of at least 2 inches, but not more than 2.4 inches. This standard aligns with guidelines for performing high-quality cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) on adolescents and older children. The rationale behind this depth is rooted in the need to generate adequate blood flow during cardiac arrest, which relies heavily on effective compressions. A depth of at least 2 inches ensures that compressions are firm enough to create the necessary pressure for optimal circulation while also avoiding excessive depth that could potentially cause harm to the ribcage or internal organs. In contrast, shallower depths, such as 1 inch or less than 2 inches, would likely not provide sufficient compressive force to be effective, thus compromising the chances of reviving the patient. A depth of 3 inches goes beyond what is recommended and may lead to injuries, which is why it is not considered appropriate for a patient in this age group.