CPR in Obese Adults and Children
Red Cross Guidelines
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For adults, children and infants with obesity in cardiac arrest, use standard cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) procedures. (Good practice statement) NEW
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When delivering chest compressions to an obese adult in cardiac arrest, greater force may be needed to provide a compression depth of at least 2 inches deep. (Good practice statement) NEW
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Team leaders should consider the need for more frequent personnel rotations when providing CPR to an obese adult. (Good practice statement) NEW
Insights
Obesity is prevalent among both adults and children in the United States. Performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) on individuals who are severely or morbidly obese can be challenging, as anatomical and physiological differences may compromise the effectiveness of chest compressions. Research suggests that obese children tend to have worse outcomes from cardiac arrest compared with those of normal weight, though findings in adults have been more variable. There is some evidence that CPR duration may be longer in certain obese adults, which may have implications for compressor fatigue, staffing and resources. No studies have addressed whether obesity influences CPR performance quality. Until more evidence is available, standard CPR procedures remain appropriate for obese adults and children. The Red Cross good practice statements reflect the need to ensure that an appropriate chest compression depth is reached in obese individuals and the potential need for additional staffing and resources during resuscitation.