A mechanism attached to a mechanical CPR device can be automatically attached to the patient's torso. The mechanical CPR device can extend the mechanism to a first position at which the mechanism comes into contact with the patient's torso. The mechanism can be further extended until a first threshold is reached. The mechanism can be retracted to the first position. The mechanism can be further retracted from the first position until a second threshold is exceeded. The mechanism can then be extended to a second point at which the second threshold is no longer exceeded. The mechanism may comprise a suction cup or sticker plate, and may be attached to an end of a piston of the mechanical CPR device.