1. Ensure Safety
Before you start CPR, ensure the safety of both you and the baby. Check for any hazards, such as electrical sources or traffic, and make sure the scene is safe to approach.
2. Assess Responsiveness
Gently tap the baby's foot and shout loudly, "Are you okay?" If there's no response, the baby is unresponsive, and you need to proceed with CPR.
3. Call for Help
If there is someone nearby, instruct them to call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately. If you are alone, make the call yourself or use a speakerphone while continuing with CPR.
4. Check for Breathing
Place the baby on their back on a firm surface, such as a tabletop or the ground.
- Place your ear close to the baby's mouth and nose while keeping your eyes on their chest.
- Look for chest movement, listen for breath sounds, and feel for breath on your cheek.
- Do this for no more than 10 seconds. If the baby is not breathing or only gasping for breath, it's time to start CPR.
5. Perform Chest Compressions
Use two fingers (index and middle fingers) to perform chest compressions on an infant:
- Locate the baby's nipple line, just below the nipple line.
- Position your fingers in the center of the chest, with your fingers perpendicular to the baby's chest.
- Compress the chest about 1.5 inches (about 4 cm) deep at a rate of around 100-120 compressions per minute.
Remember to use gentle but firm pressure. Be cautious not to press too hard, as an infant's chest is delicate.
6. Give Rescue Breaths
After 30 chest compressions, give rescue breaths:
- Tilt the baby's head back slightly to open the airway.
- Pinch the baby's nose shut.
- Take a small, gentle breath and cover the baby's mouth and nose with your mouth to create a seal.
- Give a breath that lasts about one second and makes the baby's chest rise visibly.
Continue with 30 chest compressions and 2 rescue breaths until professional help arrives, the baby starts breathing on their own, or you are too exhausted to continue.
7. Use an AED (If Available)
If an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) becomes available, use it following the device's voice prompts. Follow the instructions provided by the AED while continuing CPR as needed.
8. Continue CPR Until Help Arrives
Continue CPR until:
- Professional help arrives and takes over.
- The baby starts breathing normally.
- You are too exhausted to continue.
Remember that CPR for infants is different from CPR for adults and older children. It requires gentler chest compressions and rescue breaths suitable for an infant's size and age. It is highly recommended to take a recognized infant CPR course for hands-on training and certification.
