Performing CPR with correct hand placement may prevent which of the following?

• A. Bruising
• B. Burns
• C. Injury/Rib Fracture
• D. Sprains

Answer: (C)

Focusing on where you press during CPR matters because the goal is to drive blood flow by compressing the heart against the sternum, not by pressing on the ribs or surrounding tissues. When you place the heel of one hand on the center of the chest, on the lower half of the sternum, with the other hand on top and your elbows straight, you push straight down and deliver compressions directly through the sternum. This alignment channels the force into the heart and reduces the tendency to bend or fracture ribs from off-center or misplaced pressure. Rib fractures are a known risk of chest compressions, especially when hand placement is not centered on the sternum or depth is inconsistent; correct placement helps minimize this risk while still achieving effective compressions. Bruising, burns, or sprains aren’t primarily prevented by hand placement alone, whereas proper placement most directly lowers the chance of rib injury during CPR.