Chest compression force of trained and untrained CPR rescuers

The objective of this study was to measure the force exerted by 83 trained CPR rescuers and 104 untrained adult laypersons (college students and staff). A bathroom scale was used to measure the force exerted by these subjects with their hands on the bathroom scale in the CPR position. The weight range for both groups was the same. Of the trained rescuers, 60% pressed with more than 125 lbs, whereas only 37% of the laypersons pressed with more than 125 lbs. In view of the American Heart Association (AHA) guidelines (2000) to depress the chest 1.5 to 2 inches, which requires 100-125 lbs, it would appear that most laypersons do not exert enough force for effective CPR.