Ensuring the safety and well-being of children during emergencies is crucial, especially in schools and homes. Knowing how to perform CPR on children and infants can save lives. At Online CPR Skills, we offer free, comprehensive CPR training designed to equip you with the knowledge and confidence to act swiftly and effectively. Here’s a detailed guide on how to perform CPR on children and infants, and why it’s essential to know these life-saving techniques.

What is CPR?

Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) is an emergency procedure that combines chest compressions with artificial ventilation. The goal is to keep blood and oxygen flowing through the brain and body until emergency services arrive. CPR significantly improves the chances of survival if performed correctly and promptly.

Why Are CPR Methods Different for Children and Infants?

CPR techniques vary based on the age and physical structure of the person in distress. Adults can withstand more pressure than children and infants. Therefore, CPR on children and infants requires a gentler approach while maintaining urgency and precision.

How to Perform CPR on a Child

When performing CPR on a child aged one to puberty (approximately 13 or 14 years old), follow these steps:

  1. Assess Responsiveness: Tap the child on the shoulder and ask, “Are you okay?” If there is no response, check for vital signs.
  2. Check for Breathing and Pulse: If the child is breathing normally, call 911 and do not perform CPR. If the child is not breathing or only gasping, and there is no pulse, begin CPR.
  3. Call for Help: Before starting chest compressions, call 911 or have someone else do so.
  4. Open the Airway: Lay the child on their back and gently lift the chin to open the airway.
  5. Chest Compressions: Use the heel of one hand to press down on the center of the chest, around the nipple line. Perform 30 compressions at a rate of 100-120 beats per minute, pressing down about 2 inches.
  6. Rescue Breaths: Give 2 rescue breaths after every 30 compressions. Ensure the chest rises with each breath.
  7. Repeat: Continue the cycle of 30 compressions and 2 breaths until emergency services arrive or the child shows signs of life.

How to Perform CPR on an Infant

For infants under one year old, the steps are similar but require more delicate handling:

  1. Assess Responsiveness: Gently tap the infant and check for responsiveness.
  2. Check for Breathing and Pulse: If the infant is not breathing or only gasping, and there is no pulse, begin CPR.
  3. Call for Help: Call 911 immediately or have someone else do so.
  4. Open the Airway: Open the airway by gently tilting the infant’s head back.
  5. Chest Compressions: Use two fingers of one hand to perform chest compressions. Press down about 1.5 inches at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute.
  6. Rescue Breaths: Give 2 gentle breaths after every 30 compressions, watching for chest rise.
  7. Repeat: Continue the cycle of compressions and breaths until help arrives or the infant shows signs of life.

Learn CPR Online for Free

Finding time to attend CPR classes can be challenging, but with Online CPR Skills, you can learn and get certified from the comfort of your home. Our courses are designed to fit your schedule and are free of charge. Pay only $29.95 for your national certification, valid for 2 years. Our courses follow the latest scientific guidelines and are OSHA-compliant.

Join the thousands who have already benefited from our training. Equip yourself with the skills to save lives. Visit Online CPR Skills to start your free training today.