Red Cross Lifeguard Practice Test

Where should your hands be positioned during chest compressions for an infant?

1. One hand on the chin and one hand on the chest

2. One hand on the chin and two or three fingers on the center of the chest

3. One hand on the forehead and two or three fingers on the center of the chest

4. One hand on the forehead and one hand on the chest

The correct answer is: One hand on the forehead and two or three fingers on the center of the chest

For chest compressions on an infant, it is important to properly position your hands to ensure effective and safe compressions. When using two or three fingers, they should be placed just below the nipple line in the center of the chest, which corresponds to the correct anatomical location to compress the heart slightly. Placing one hand on the forehead helps to maintain an open airway while you use your fingers on the chest for compressions. This technique allows you to stabilize the infant's head and ensures that the compression is delivered appropriately without excessive force that could harm the infant. This positioning helps deliver the necessary force needed to circulate blood effectively during a cardiac event. Other options involve incorrect hand placements or techniques that would not provide the same effective compressions. For instance, using one hand on the chin or simply using one hand on the chest would not allow for adequate force and may compromise the airway, which is critical for an infant's safety and recovery. Therefore, the selected answer ensures that both the airway is maintained and effective compressions are achieved.