…..Answer: The Breastbone.
The sternum is the long, flat bone located in the centre of the chest. It connects with the ribs through cartilage and helps form the protective rib cage surrounding the heart, lungs and major blood vessels.
It also provides attachment points for the collarbones and several important muscles.
The sternum is particularly relevant to first aid because chest compressions are delivered in the centre of the chest, over the lower half of the sternum.
If a person is unresponsive and not breathing normally, call 111, begin CPR and use an AED as soon as one becomes available.
Tomorrow – we begin a new topic and put more practical first-aid knowledge to work.
For great health information, check out Health Navigator New Zealand, where you will find expert opinion online.
Click here to learn more and find out how you can learn first aid for FREE
Click the images below to access our learning resources.
Click here to find out how you can learn first aid for FREE
To learn more from the experts about previously covered conditions, click their logo below.
Acknowledgement
Data and information are fact-checked against various recognised sources, including the New Zealand Resuscitation Council, Health Navigator New Zealand, St John, and other recognised entities specialising in the specific subject content. It should be noted that there are variances in protocols, which are identified where necessary.