How do you control abnormal breathing of an infant?

Controlling abnormal breathing in infants requires prompt attention and proper techniques to ensure their safety and well-being. Here are steps to manage abnormal breathing in infants:

1. Stay Calm: Remain calm and composed during the situation, as your emotional state can affect the infant's condition.

2. Position the Infant: If the infant is choking or having trouble breathing, position them face down along your arm with their head lower than their chest. Support the head and neck while you gently pat their back.

3. Back Blows: Give five quick back blows between the infant's shoulder blades using the heel of your hand. This can help dislodge any obstructions in the airway.

4. Chest Thrusts: If back blows don't work, turn the infant face up and provide five quick chest thrusts using two fingers placed in the center of the chest, just below the nipples. Press down about 1.5 inches and allow the chest to recoil after each thrust.

5. Alternate Back Blows and Chest Thrusts: Continue alternating between five back blows and five chest thrusts until the obstruction is dislodged, or the infant starts breathing or coughing vigorously.

6. Call for Emergency Help: If the infant's condition doesn't improve after several rounds of back blows and chest thrusts, call emergency medical services (911) immediately.

7. Monitor Breathing: Once the infant's airway is clear, monitor their breathing closely. If the infant's breathing is slow or irregular, continue to stimulate them by gently rubbing their back or patting their feet.

8. Administer Oxygen: If available, administer oxygen according to the instructions provided by healthcare professionals.

Remember, these techniques should only be used in life-threatening situations when the infant is choking or has severe breathing difficulties. Always consult with a healthcare professional or take a certified infant CPR course to ensure you have the necessary skills and knowledge to handle such situations.