What is the appropriate depth of chest compressions on an infant?

The appropriate depth of chest compressions on an infant is indeed 1 1/2 inches. This depth is based on the anatomical considerations and physiological differences between infants and adults. When performing CPR on infants, it's important to compress the chest to about one-third the depth of the chest, which translates to approximately 1 1/2 inches for most infants.

This depth of compression is crucial for ensuring that effective blood circulation is maintained during a cardiac emergency. If compressions are too shallow, they may not generate sufficient pressure to circulate blood adequately, which can compromise the effectiveness of the resuscitation attempt. Conversely, compressions that are too deep may risk causing injury to the infant's developing bones or organs. Thus, following the recommended depth helps to balance effectiveness with safety when performing CPR on infants.