BLS Hospital Corpsman Practice Exam

When performing CPR on a child, using one hand as a preference is the correct approach. This technique is essential for maintaining effective compression depth while also allowing for better control and positioning. It is appropriate to adapt to the size and strength of the child, and using one hand can often be sufficient to achieve the necessary compression depth of at least one-third the depth of the chest, typically around 1.5 to 2 inches.

This method also enhances the rescuer's ability to maintain proper hand placement and rhythm, which is critical for effective compressions. In the case of smaller children, one-handed compressions can help avoid the risk of excessive force, which could lead to injury.

In certain situations, especially with larger children or if you're unable to effectively compress with one hand, using both hands may be necessary. However, the emphasis remains on using a method that is both safe and effective for the child's size and age. Therefore, adopting a one-handed technique is often recommended in pediatric CPR.