When performing chest compressions, correct hand placement is essential to prevent breaking what part of the body?

When performing chest compressions during cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), correct hand placement is crucial to protect specific anatomical structures, particularly the xiphoid process. The xiphoid process is a small, cartilaginous extension at the lower end of the sternum. If compressions are delivered incorrectly or with inappropriate hand positioning, there's a risk of causing injury to the xiphoid process, which can lead to complications such as laceration of underlying organs or causing injury to the diaphragm.

Proper hand placement involves positioning the heel of one hand on the lower half of the sternum, with the other hand on top, ensuring that compressions are delivered in a straight downward motion. This technique helps to avoid collapsing the xiphoid process and ensures that compressions are effective in circulating blood during a cardiac emergency. Other structures may also be of concern, but the xiphoid process is particularly susceptible to injury during compressions if not done correctly.