Infant CPR: Chest Compression to Breath Ratio Explained

For infants (<1 year), the compression-to-ventilation ratio is 3:1 (3 compressions : 1 breath) for single rescuer.

Key Details

• Compressions: 2 fingers on lower sternum, 1.5 inches (4 cm) deep, 100–120/min.
• Breaths: Cover mouth+nose; gentle puff (chest rise); 1 second each.
• Two-rescuer: 15:2 ratio (same as child).
• Cycle: 5 cycles (≈2 min) before rechecking.

Why 3:1?

Infants' primary arrest cause is usually respiratory (asphyxia). Higher ventilation ratio supports oxygenation during CPR.

Take an infant CPR course (AHA/Red Cross) for hands-on practice.