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Question 8 of 20
A nursing student is demonstrating chest compressions for an adult. Which action would cause
the nurse to intertene?
positioning the body over the hands to exhibit downward motion
locking the elbows to provide firm, direct pressure
keeping the hands in contact with the chest between compressions
placing the heel of the hand just below the xiphoid process
SUBMIT ANSWER

Ask by Mitchell Floyd. in the United States
Jan 19,2025

Upstudy AI Solution

Tutor-Verified Answer

Answer

The nurse should intervene if the hands are placed just below the xiphoid process during chest compressions.

Solution

The correct action that would cause the nurse to intervene is:
Placing the heel of the hand just below the xiphoid process

Explanation:

When performing chest compressions for an adult during CPR, proper hand placement is crucial to ensure effective compressions and to minimize the risk of injury. Here’s a breakdown of each option:
  1. Positioning the body over the hands to exhibit downward motion
    • Correct: This ensures that compressions are effective by using the body’s weight.
  2. Locking the elbows to provide firm, direct pressure
    • Correct: Locked elbows help maintain straight arms, allowing for proper force application.
  3. Keeping the hands in contact with the chest between compressions
    • Incorrect: The hands should lift off to allow the chest to fully recoil between compressions. This recoil is essential for effective blood flow.
  4. Placing the heel of the hand just below the xiphoid process
    • Incorrect and Requires Intervention: The correct placement is on the lower half of the sternum (breastbone), avoiding the xiphoid process to prevent potential injury to internal organs. Placing the hands too low can cause the sternum to hyperextend and potentially damage the liver or other internal structures.

Key Takeaway:

Proper hand placement during chest compressions is vital. Placing the heel of the hand too low, specifically just below the xiphoid process, is incorrect and can lead to complications, necessitating immediate correction by the supervising nurse.

Answered by UpStudy AI and reviewed by a Professional Tutor

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Bonus Knowledge

Positioning the heel of the hand just below the xiphoid process is a big no-no during chest compressions! If you place your hands too low, you risk causing serious injuries to the liver and can even fracture ribs, which just adds to the patient’s woes instead of helping! It’s like trying to fix a sandwich by smashing it with a hammer—definitely not the right approach!
Now, proper technique is crucial! When you’re administering chest compressions, always remember to place the heel of your hand on the center of the chest, right on the lower half of the sternum. This position helps you deliver effective compressions that can keep blood circulating, while also avoiding any unnecessary harm. Keep it safe and effective, and you’ll be a lifesaving superstar!

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