Certified Pediatric Emergency Nurse (CPEN) Practice Exam

When performing chest compressions on an infant, using two fingers is critical because this method allows for adequate compression while minimizing the risk of injury to the infant's fragile chest structure. The compressions should be delivered at a rate of about 100-120 compressions per minute, focusing on the correct depth of compression, which is about one-third to one-half the depth of the chest. Employing the two-finger technique enables better control and precision over the compressions, ensuring that they are effective in promoting circulation without applying excessive force that could cause harm.

In contrast, using the palm of one hand or compressing at the upper third of the sternum would not provide the necessary depth or effectiveness needed in an infant's smaller chest. Compressing at the midpoint of the sternum could also lead to ineffective compressions if not performed with the appropriate technique, emphasizing how critical the use of the two-finger method is for successful resuscitation in infants.