CPR Instructions for a Baby
Learning how to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation is important for anyone who has children or works with children, including infants. CPR can save lives, as every moment counts when a baby is not breathing. Stay calm and don't panic, if you choose to try CPR, and remember to always call 911 first. Because babies are so much smaller than adults, CPR instructions are different but still emphasize the ABC's: airway, breathing and circulation.
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Instructions
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Yell and tap the baby on the shoulder or feet to try to get a response such as moving, crying or stirring. If there is no response, place the baby on his back.
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Tell someone to call 911 and then start giving CPR to the infant. Lift the baby's chin to open the airway, being sure not to tilt her head back too far. Keep one hand on her forehead to keep the head in position.
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Blow two 1-second-long breaths into the baby's mouth, if he is not breathing. If his chest rises with each breath, you know his lungs inflated. If his chest does not rise, the baby could be choking on an object.
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Give 30 fast, rhythmic chest compressions in the center of the chest, just below the nipples, using two or three fingers. Compress her chest about 1/3 of its depth each time.
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Repeat the pattern of two rescue breaths, followed by 30 fast chest compressions, until help arrives.
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Tips & Warnings
If you are alone, start giving CPR to the baby before calling 911. Give CPR for one to two minutes, then make the call yourself.
Stay calm and make sure you are in a safe place before starting CPR.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit the little boy to sit on white blanket image by Valentin Mosichev from Fotolia.com
