Final answer:
For a six-year-old child, chest compressions during CPR should be 2 inches (5 cm) deep to ensure effective blood circulation, with an emphasis on high-quality chest compressions.
Step-by-step explanation:
When performing CPR on a six-year-old child, the depth of chest compressions should be about one-third the depth of the chest, approximately 2 inches (5 cm). This is in accordance with the current standards for CPR, which suggest compressing the chest at least 5 cm deep at a rate of 100 compressions per minute. It is crucial to apply this technique correctly to ensure the blood is circulated effectively, especially to vital organs such as the brain, which can suffer irreversible damage within minutes of losing blood flow. High-quality chest compressions are emphasized over artificial respiration during CPR, and proper training is essential to avoid serious injury such as broken ribs or damage to internal organs.