How deep should adult CPR chest compressions usually be?

Press at least 2 inches on an average adult.

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  1. About 1 inch
  2. At least 2 inches ✔
  3. At least 4 inches

Why: Adequate depth helps circulate blood during cardiac arrest. Avoid pressing deeper than 2.4 inches, and let the chest return after each push.

Huh, didn't know that: Adult CPR depth is also stated as at least 5 centimeters.

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References

Answer: At least 2 inches. Adequate depth helps circulate blood during cardiac arrest. Avoid pressing deeper than 2.4 inches, and let the chest return after each push.

  1. What is CPR? cpr.heart.org/en/resources/what-is-cpr
    a depth of at least 2 inches (5 cm) for an average adult
    Checked 2026-10-21.

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