CPR Chest Compressions: Rate & Depth Guidelines
CPR chest compression rates and depths are based on the 2020 American Heart Association (AHA) guidelines, adapted for different age groups. These evidence-based standards have been established through decades of cardiac arrest research and are updated regularly to reflect best practices in cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Proper compression technique significantly improves survival outcomes.
When to use this calculator
- CPR and BLS training and certification
- Healthcare professionals and students
- First responders and rescue personnel
- Validating compression technique
- Teaching CPR protocol and guidelines
- Quick reference during CPR training
Calculation Example
- Adult
- 100–120/min
How it works
1 min readHow CPR Compression Rates and Depths Work
The 2020 American Heart Association (AHA) guidelines provide evidence-based recommendations for chest compression rates and depths during cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). These values are grounded in decades of clinical research on cardiac arrest outcomes.
How It's Calculated
This calculator applies the AHA guidelines based on the victim's age group. Two critical components determine effective CPR:
Maintaining both parameters within the recommended range maximizes blood flow to vital organs during cardiac arrest.
Normal Reference Ranges by Age Group
| Age Group | Compression Rate | Compression Depth |
|---|---|---|
| Adults | 100–120/min | 5–6 cm (2–2.4 inches) |
| Children (1–8 years) | 100–120/min | About 5 cm (roughly 1/3 chest depth) |
| Infants (under 1 year) | 100–120/min | 4 cm (1.5 inches) |
Key Points for Effective CPR
Important Disclaimer
This calculator is a reference guide for CPR guidelines. For actual training, certification, and emergency response, consult certified CPR instructors and follow protocols from your local emergency medical services (EMS).
Frequently asked questions
What is the correct CPR compression rate?
100–120 compressions per minute for all age groups: adults, children, and infants. A helpful memory aid: the song 'Stayin' Alive' (100–103 bpm) matches this pace perfectly.
How deep should CPR compressions be for adults?
5–6 cm (2–2.4 inches) into the chest. Follow the principle 'push hard and push fast.'
What is the correct compression depth for children?
About 5 cm (roughly 1/3 of the child's anterior-posterior chest depth, or approximately 2 inches).
How deep should compressions be for infants?
About 4 cm (1.5 inches). Use two fingers for single-rescuer CPR or two thumbs for two-rescuer CPR.
What is the compression-to-ventilation ratio in CPR?
Adults: 30:2 (30 compressions to 2 rescue breaths). Children and infants with one rescuer: 30:2. With two trained rescuers: 15:2.
Should I do hands-only CPR or rescue breaths?
For adults, hands-only CPR (continuous chest compressions without breaths) is highly effective and recommended if untrained. Trained rescuers should provide rescue breaths according to guidelines.
How often should rescuers switch during CPR?
Every 2 minutes. Switching prevents rescuer fatigue and maintains compression quality, which directly affects survival outcomes.
When should I use an AED (defibrillator)?
Deploy an AED as soon as one is available. If alone, call 911 first, then get the AED. Always follow the AED's voice prompts.
When should you stop performing CPR?
Stop CPR only if: (1) EMS or medical personnel take over, (2) the person shows signs of life, (3) you're too exhausted to continue safely, or (4) a doctor or AED tells you to stop.