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Infant CPR Information

If an infant chokes, suffocates or receives any number of injuries that could inhibit her breathing, it is a matter of minutes before the loss of blood flow can cause brain damage, according to the United States National Library of Medicine. CPR, when properly learned and applied, can help avoid death and permanent damage.

  1. Procedure

    • There are basic steps to infant CPR: check the infant's breathing, place her on her back, open the airway, administer two rescue breaths, administer 30 chest compressions and repeat. The National Library of Medicine strongly suggests receiving formal training before attempting infant CPR.

    Cautions

    • Do not try to move an infant's head back to move her tongue away from the windpipe; there could be a spinal injury. Also, do not give chest compressions unless the child is not showing signs of breathing, coughing or moving.

    Prevention/Solution

    • The majority of cases in which infants need CPR are caused by an accident, according to the National Library of Medicine. The organization suggests ensuring safe environments and teaching children about dangers by firmly saying "no" when they do something dangerous.

    Training

    • National organizations, such as the American Red Cross and the American Heart Association, offer training courses in CPR, first aid and AED for infants, children and adults. Both organizations offer training to businesses and communities.

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