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CPR for Infants

  • Writer: Instructor
    Instructor
  • Jun 29
  • 2 min read

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When it comes to emergencies involving infants, every second counts. Whether you’re a parent, babysitter, grandparent, or childcare provider, knowing how to perform CPR on an infant could make all the difference in a critical moment.


What Is Infant CPR?

CPR is a combination of chest compressions and rescue breaths designed to manually support the circulation of blood and oxygen through the body when the heart or breathing has stopped. For infants (under 1 year old), the technique differs slightly from adult or child CPR due to their smaller size and more fragile bodies.


When to Perform CPR on an Infant

You should perform CPR if:

  • The infant is unresponsive

  • They are not breathing

  • There is no sign of circulation (no movement or coughing)


Steps for Performing Infant CPR

Step 1: Check Responsiveness

  • Gently tap the infant on the foot and shout their name.

  • Look for any response (movement, crying, blinking).

Step 2: Call for Help

  • If you’re alone, perform CPR for 2 minutes before calling 911.

  • If someone else is present, have them call emergency services immediately while you start CPR.

Step 3: Check for Breathing

  • Look, listen, and feel for breathing for no more than 10 seconds.

Step 4: Start Chest Compressions

  • Place two fingers or two thumbs in the center of the infant’s chest just below the nipple line.

  • Compress about 1.5 inches deep at a rate of 100–120 compressions per minute.

  • Allow the chest to fully recoil between compressions.

Step 5: Give Rescue Breaths

  • After 30 compressions, give 2 gentle breaths.

  • Cover the infant’s nose and mouth with your mouth to create a seal.

  • Each breath should last about 1 second—just enough to make the chest rise.

Step 6: Repeat

  • Continue the cycle of 30 compressions and 2 breaths.

  • Do not stop until the infant starts breathing, help arrives, or someone relieves you.


Important Safety Tips

  • Never shake an unresponsive infant.

  • Be gentle but firm—too much force can cause injury.

  • Do not delay CPR waiting for help; starting compressions immediately increases the chance of survival.


Conclusion 

Knowing how to perform infant CPR is a vital skill that could save a life. Emergencies are unpredictable, but preparation can empower you to act quickly and effectively. 

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