How to Perform CPR on a Baby: A Guide for Parents and Caregivers

CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) is a critical lifesaving skill when an infant is unresponsive or not breathing. Knowing how to perform CPR on a baby can significantly improve survival rates in emergency situations. This guide provides a step-by-step process to help you provide emergency care.

Key Steps to Perform CPR on an Infant

Performing CPR on a baby requires specific procedures to ensure effective rescuer safety and infant care. Follow these guidelines to perform CPR on an unresponsive infant under one year of age.

Check for Responsiveness

1. **Check for Responsiveness:

First, gently tap the infant's foot or shoulder and shout their name to check for any response. If there is no response, shout for help and ask someone to call emergency services immediately. If you're alone, perform 2 minutes of CPR before calling emergency services.

Check Breathing

2. **Check Breathing:

Look for chest movement and listen for breathing for no more than 10 seconds. If the infant is not breathing or is only gasping, begin CPR immediately.

Give 5 Initial Rescue Breaths

3. **Give 5 Rescue Breaths:

Position your mouth over the infant's mouth and nose, forming a seal. Deliver 5 gentle rescue breaths, each lasting about 1 second, just enough to cause the chest to rise. These initial breaths are crucial in establishing the infant's airway.

Begin Chest Compressions

4. **Begin Chest Compressions:

Using your two fingers, place them just below the nipple line in the center of the infant's chest. Press down about 1.5 inches deep and let the chest rise completely between compressions. Perform 30 compressions at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute to maintain blood circulation.

Alternate Compressions and Breaths

5. **Alternate Between Compressions and Breaths:

After 30 compressions, give 2 rescue breaths. Continue the cycle of 30 compressions followed by 2 breaths until help arrives or the infant begins to show signs of life.

Use an AED if Available

6. **Use an AED if Available:

If an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is available, apply it after performing 2 minutes of CPR. Follow the device instructions carefully, especially when using pediatric pads if available.

Key Points to Bear in Mind While Performing CPR on a Baby

7. **Always Keep Compressions Gentle:

Compressions should be firm enough to move blood through the infant's body, but avoid excessive force. Ensure that the chest rises fully between compressions.

8. **Proper Head and Airway Alignment:

Avoid tilting the head too far back during rescue breaths, as infants have smaller airways that can be easily blocked. Keep the head slightly in a neutral position to prevent airway obstruction.

9. **Continue CPR Until Medical Help Arrives:

Perform CPR continuously until medical professionals take over or the infant shows signs of life. Quick and consistent action significantly increases the chances of survival.

Performing CPR on an infant can be intimidating, but quick and effective action can make a lifesaving difference. Always prioritize your safety, follow the necessary guidelines, and seek professional training to master this critical skill.