CPR Steps Child

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 2, 2024.

CPR can save a child's life. Do compressions even if you cannot give rescue breaths.

Check the child:
Start compressions:
- Kneel beside the child's chest.
- Put one of your hands on top of the other. Use only one hand if the child is small.
- Put the heel of your bottom hand where the child's ribs meet in the middle of his or her chest, between the nipples.
- Press straight down on the sternum (breastbone) at least 2 inches (5 centimeters).
- Do 30 chest compressions at a rate of at least 100 to 120 every minute (2 per second).
- Count the compressions out loud to help you do them at a steady, even speed.
Give 2 rescue breaths:
- Place one hand on the child's forehead and 2 fingers under the chin.
- Tilt the head back and open the mouth.
- Gently pinch the child's nose closed.
- Take a deep breath and put your lips around the child's mouth, making an airtight seal.
- Blow into the child's mouth. His or her chest will rise with each breath if air is going into the lungs.
- Let the child's chest fall before giving another breath.
Repeat the cycle of 30 compressions and 2 breaths for 5 cycles .
CALL:
- Your local emergency number (911 in the US)
Continue CPR until help arrives or the child begins to respond.

Care Agreement

You have the right to help plan your child's care. Learn about your child's health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your child's healthcare providers to decide what care you want for your child. The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

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