Final answer:
The correct technique for performing CPR on a 3-year-old child is to use the heel of one hand for chest compressions, applying pressure between the T4 and T9 of the sternum at the rate of 100 compressions per minute.
Step-by-step explanation:
When performing CPR on a very small 3-year-old child, the correct technique for chest compressions is to use the heel of one hand. You should perform these compressions on the sternum, which is the flat bone in the center of the chest, applying pressure at a depth of at least 5 cm and at a rate of 100 compressions per minute. This method helps to manually compress the blood within the heart and push it into the systemic and pulmonary circuits to sustain life until the heart can resume beating or medical assistance arrives. Proper positioning is critical, and hands should be placed between the lines at T4 and T9 on the sternum to avoid injuries such as broken ribs or damage to the xiphoid process and liver. It is highly recommended to get certified and routinely recertified in CPR through courses offered by various organizations including the American Red Cross.