What should you do about chest recoil after each compression during pediatric CPR?

What should you do about chest recoil after each compression during pediatric CPR?

• A. Allow complete recoil of the chest after each compression
• B. Keep partial recoil to maintain depth
• C. Lean on the chest between compressions
• D. Hold the chest rigid during cycles

Answer: (A)

During pediatric CPR, allow the chest to recoil completely after each compression. Full recoil lets the heart fill with blood again, preserving venous return and maintaining perfusion to the heart and brain between compressions. If you don’t allow full recoil—by leaning on the chest or keeping it pressed—venous return drops, intrathoracic pressure remains high, and overall blood flow during CPR decreases. Leaning or holding the chest rigid also prevents this necessary recoil. So, after every compression, let the chest return fully to its resting position before the next one, which helps maximize effectiveness, especially in children whose chests are more compliant.

During pediatric CPR, allow the chest to recoil completely after each compression. Full recoil lets the heart fill with blood again, preserving venous return and maintaining perfusion to the heart and brain between compressions. If you don’t allow full recoil—by leaning on the chest or keeping it pressed—venous return drops, intrathoracic pressure remains high, and overall blood flow during CPR decreases. Leaning or holding the chest rigid also prevents this necessary recoil. So, after every compression, let the chest return fully to its resting position before the next one, which helps maximize effectiveness, especially in children whose chests are more compliant.