When giving compressions during CPR, how should the responder position their body?

The correct positioning of the responder's body during CPR compressions is crucial for effective and efficient compressions. When the shoulders are positioned directly over the hands and the elbows are locked, it allows for the responder to use their body weight effectively while maintaining proper form. This alignment helps to deliver strong, deep compressions that are necessary to circulate blood throughout the body, especially to vital organs such as the heart and brain, during a cardiac arrest situation.

By locking the elbows, the responder provides consistent pressure without straining the arms. This technique maximizes the force applied to the chest and reduces the energy that the responder expends, enabling them to perform compressions for an extended period, which is often necessary in real-life scenarios. Proper technique in positioning also minimizes fatigue and the risk of injury to the responder.

In contrast, other body positions may compromise the effectiveness of the compressions. For example, standing with feet shoulder-width apart with knees bent might not provide the necessary alignment for optimal force application. Similarly, having one foot in front of the other or positioning the body slightly away from the patient could lead to less effective compressions, as these positions might affect the alignment of the body and the depth of compressions. Therefore, positioning the shoulders directly over