In our last post, we introduced the basics of CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) and its importance. Now, let’s dive into a detailed, step-by-step CPR guide specifically for infants. This guide is tailored for the general public. If you’re a healthcare provider, stay tuned for an upcoming post covering the latest standards from ILCOR, the Heart & Stroke Foundation, and Basic Life Support (CPR-C) guidelines for HCPs.
Common Questions About Infant CPR
Can CPR hurt my baby? Answer: No, CPR is perfectly safe. You will NOT hurt your infant. However, not performing CPR in a critical situation may result in the death of the infant.
Can I break ribs by doing CPR? Answer: It is rare to break an infant’s ribs during CPR. Infants’ bones are still developing and are more pliable. Focus on pushing hard and fast to a depth of 1/3 of the chest’s depth (approximately 4 cm or 1.5 inches), and don’t stop until professional help arrives.
How much air should I give? Answer: When giving breaths, use just enough air to make the baby’s chest rise. Perform a head-tilt chin lift to a neutral “sniffing” position. Seal your lips over the baby’s nose and mouth, and give a gentle breath. If you feel resistance, check for obstructions in the baby’s mouth. Remove visible objects carefully—NEVER perform a blind finger sweep as this could push the object further.
Emergency Procedures
In any emergency, remember these steps:
Protect Yourself – Ensure the scene is safe before assisting.
Call 911 – Activate emergency medical services.
Act Quickly – Seconds matter! Every moment without oxygen increases the risk of brain damage. Don’t hesitate—take action.
If an infant is not breathing and unconscious, START CPR immediately.
Step-by-Step CPR Guide for Infants
1) Start CPR:
Place one hand on the infant’s forehead to maintain an open airway with a slight head-tilt chin lift (“sniffing” position).
Use two fingers to press the center of the chest, just below the nipple line.
Perform 30 compressions at a rate of 100-120 per minute, pushing to a depth of approximately 4 cm (1.5 inches). Allow the chest to recoil completely after each compression.
2) Give Two Breaths:
Use a pocket mask if available, or proceed with mouth-to-mouth.
Open the airway using the head-tilt chin lift technique.
Seal your lips tightly over the infant’s mouth and nose.
Deliver two gentle breaths (1 second each) just enough to make the chest rise.
3) If Breaths Go In:
Repeat cycles of 30 compressions and 2 breaths.
4) If Breaths Do NOT Go In:
After 30 compressions, check for visible obstructions in the mouth. If you see an object, remove it carefully.
NEVER perform a blind finger sweep.
Continue CPR cycles of 30 compressions and 2 breaths.
When to Stop CPR:
The scene becomes unsafe.
Advanced medical help arrives and takes over.
An AED arrives and instructs you to stop.
You are physically unable to continue.
The infant begins breathing normally.
Final Thoughts
Emergencies involving infants can be overwhelming, but preparation and knowledge save lives. Remember:
Protect Yourself.
Call 911.
Don’t Waste Time.
Learn CPR today to make a difference tomorrow. Sign up for a Basic Life Support (BLS) CPR Course at Saving Grace Medical Academy Ltd.
RESOURCES:
Author - Saving Grace Medical Academy Ltd
Jason T
Retired EMT - Heart & Stroke Foundation Senior Instructor