A compression belt cartridge (5) has a double-oar shaped belt (3) and a cover plate (44) through which the belt (3) is threaded. The cover plate (44) is provided with hooks (51, 52, 53,54) and snap latches (47, 48, 49, 50) that fit into a belt drive platform (4). The cover plate (44) is sized and dimensioned to fit within only selected platforms. The belt (3) attaches to the means for tightening (42) the belt (3) via a spline (66) attached to the belt (3). The means for tightening (42) a belt (3) then repetitively tightens the belt (3), thereby accomplishing chest compressions.
