Here's a CPR scenario....to answer! what happens if....?

When administrating cardiopulmonary resuscitation, the nurse should locate the tip of the xiphoid by placing two fingers on the xiphoid process and then placing the heel of the other hand just above this site on the lower half of the sternum. What complications do you think could occur if the nurse places his or her hand on the xiphoid process?

it'll break off.. ouch.

Chest compressions less effective due to lateral heart movement plus some possible internal damage. Why are you asking such a loaded question.

Actually the new standard for placing the hands in the appropriate position for CPR has nothing to do with the xiphoid anymore....they should be placed in the center of the chest, aligned with the nipples.....this is to avoid complications like possibly fracturing the xiphoid(which many an ER MD has assured me...an ER RN....is a very remote possiblity).....or fracturing ribs...which can occur even with proper positioning & applying the proper amount of pressure during compressions...I just recertified my PALS,ACLS & TNS......so I am confident I am current... they changed this b/c they feel alot of time was being wasted by personnel taking the time to trace up from the xiphoid...it's just unneccessary.