How to Perform Rescue Breath for a Child

Sometimes, you must give rescue breathing to a child between the ages of 1 and 8. Here's what to do when there is a pulse, but the child is not breathing on her own.

Things You'll Need

• Breathing barrier

Instructions

1. Check the scene for safety, then check the child for consciousness by tapping and shouting on his shoulder. If the child is small in size, tap softly or tickle the feet. Call 911 or the local emergency number.

2. Open the child's airway by placing one hand on the forehead and two fingers under the chin, gently tilting the head back enough so the mouth opens naturally.

3. Look, listen and feel for breathing by placing your ear near the child's mouth and watching her chest for any signs of movement.

4. Give two initial rescue breaths to determine if the child is choking by plugging the nose and covering his mouth with yours. Only breathe hard enough until you see the chest gently rise. Do not overfill the lungs, as they are smaller than those of an average adult.

5. Feel for a pulse on the carotid artery on the side of the neck using your index and middle finger.

6. Give the victim one breath every three seconds if there is a pulse but no breathing. Recheck for the pulse every few minutes. Continue this until EMS or other help arrives.

Tips & Warnings

• For certification in CPR and rescue breathing, contact your local American Red Cross or the American Heart Association.

• Do not use your thumb to check for a pulse.

Resources

• American Red Cross