Manikin studies suggest posture may affect chest-compression quality
A review linked kneeling with better compression performance in some studies, but all included research used manikins and had weak overall methodological quality.
Based on the published abstract. The full paper may contain additional methods, results and limitations.
The 30-second takeaway
Some manikin studies associated kneeling with more effective or efficient chest compressions than standing. Evidence about height was limited, and hand-position changes appeared to make little difference. Because these were weak observational studies using manikins, the review cannot establish improved survival or provide a firm basis for changing emergency practice.
Every included study used manikins and was rated weak overall. The abstract does not report pooled effect sizes, detailed performance measures or study durations, limiting interpretation beyond simulated compression performance.
What researchers found
Compression efficacy and efficiency
Compared with standing in manikin studies; test durations and specific performance scales were not reported.
What was measured
The review focused on the rescuer's posture and position, and the height of the manikin during compressions. It examined compression efficacy and efficiency, with no patient survival outcomes reported in the abstract.
Other findings were limited
Some studies reported lower compression quality while rescuers were walking. The authors also found too little evidence to identify an optimal height, including adjustments based on the rescuer's body dimensions.
The original publication
Impact of the rescuer's posture and position, or manikin position on the efficacy and efficiency of chest compressions during cardiopulmonary resuscitation in adults: a systematic review.
Bhudarally M, Atalaia T, Pereira H et al.
Clin Exp Emerg Med · 2026
- PubMed ID
- 41554285
- Record checked
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