What is the appropriate compression depth for a 6-month-old infant during CPR?

The appropriate compression depth for a 6-month-old infant during CPR is about 1½ inches. This guideline is based on the infant's size and the physiological mechanics of performing effective chest compressions.

When administering CPR to infants, it's crucial to compress the chest to a depth that allows for adequate blood circulation and to create sufficient pressure to provide blood flow to vital organs. A depth of 1½ inches is recommended because it is deep enough to generate the necessary pressure while still being mindful of the infant's smaller, more delicate body structure.

Using a depth that is too shallow would not effectively circulate blood, leading to inadequate oxygen delivery to the brain and other critical organs. Conversely, compressing deeper than recommended could risk injury to the infant’s chest and internal organs. Hence, adhering to the 1½ inches depth is essential for delivering effective CPR in infants.