Infant CPR: Step-by-Step Guide for Resuscitation

Infant CPR (under 1 year) follows the C-A-B sequence: Compressions, Airway, Breathing. If you are alone, perform 2 minutes of CPR before calling emergency services.

1. Check Responsiveness

• Tap the infant's foot or shoulder and shout, "Are you okay?"
• If no response, shout for help. If someone arrives, send them to call 911/EMS and get an AED.

2. Begin Chest Compressions

• Place two fingers (index and middle) on the center of the chest, just below the nipple line.
• Compress 1.5 inches (4 cm) deep at 100-120 compressions/minute.
• Allow full chest recoil between compressions.

3. Open Airway & Give Rescue Breaths

• Tilt head back slightly (neutral position—do not overextend).
• Pinch nose shut; cover infant's mouth and nose with your mouth (or use mouth-to-mouth if seal is difficult).
• Give 2 gentle breaths (1 second each), watching for chest rise.

4. Continue Cycles

• 30 compressions : 2 breaths (single rescuer).
• 15 compressions : 2 breaths (two rescuers).
• Continue until infant breathes, help arrives, or you are exhausted.

5. AED Use

• Use pediatric pads if available; if not, adult pads are acceptable (place one on chest, one on back).
• Follow AED prompts.

Take a certified CPR course for hands-on practice. Proper technique saves lives.