Infant and Child CPR: A Step-by-Step Guide for Parents and Carers

When it comes to keeping little ones safe, every parent, teacher, and caregiver knows it can feel like a full-time job! In this blog series, we’ll dive into the must-know first aid essentials for childcare and education settings—straight from a mum and registered nurse who’s seen it all, both at home and on the job. Whether it’s wrangling kids with skinned knees or managing a sudden allergic reaction, I’ve got the real-world tips (and the tales) to help you stay calm and confident when things go sideways. Let’s get started with practical, no-nonsense first aid guidance that cuts through the jargon—because when things get messy, knowing what to do makes all the difference.”

Emergencies involving little ones can be overwhelming, but knowing exactly what to do in those critical moments can make all the difference. Here’s a no-fuss, step-by-step guide to infant and child CPR using the DRSABCD action plan.

D – Danger

1. Look around for any dangers to yourself, bystanders, and the child or infant. Hazards could include anything from electrical sources to moving vehicles.
2. If it’s safe, proceed. If there’s any danger, call for help before approaching.

R – Response

1. Check for a response from the infant or child. Gently tap the infant’s feet or shoulders, clap your hands near their face (make some noise) and call their name. For a child, tap their shoulders and call out.
2. If they respond (move, make sounds, or open their eyes), keep them comfortable and keep a close watch until help arrives.
3. If there’s no response, move on to ‘S’ for Send.

S – Send for Help

1. Call Triple Zero (000) for emergency services. If you’re not alone, ask someone nearby to call so you can stay with the child.
2. Use speaker mode if you’re by yourself so you can keep working while speaking to the operator.

A – Airway

1. Open the airway by tilting the infant’s head slightly to keep it neutral. For a child, gently tilt the head back (into the ‘sniffing’ position).
2. Look for any visible obstructions like food or small objects. Only remove an item if it’s clearly visible—don’t sweep your fingers inside the mouth, as this could worsen the obstruction.

B – Breathing

1. Look, listen, and feel for breathing by watching the chest, listening for breaths, and feeling for air on your cheek. At the same time, lightly place your hand on the child or infant’s chest to feel for movement. 
2. If they’re breathing, roll them into the recovery position and keep monitoring until help arrives. Infants can be cradled, lying along your arm, while supporting their head.
3. If there’s no breathing or only occasional gasps, move to CPR.

C – CPR (Compressions and Breaths)

1. For an Infant (under 1 year):
   • Use two fingers in the centre of the chest, just below the nipple line.
   • Deliver 30 compressions, pressing down one-third of the chest depth at a steady rate of 100-120 compressions per minute.
   • After 30 compressions, give 2 small breaths by covering both the nose and mouth with your mouth and giving gentle puffs, just enough to make the chest rise.
2. For a Child (1 year to puberty):
   • Place one hand in the centre of the chest (between the nipples), using two hands if necessary for older or larger children.
   • Give 30 compressions, pressing down one-third of the chest depth.
   • Provide 2 breaths after each set of 30 compressions. Pinch the nose, seal your mouth over theirs, and give gentle breaths just enough to make the chest rise.

Repeat 30 compressions and 2 breaths until the child or infant begins breathing independently or help arrives.

Insert images

1. Infant: 2 finger compressions
2. Child: 1 hand compressions

D – Defibrillation

1. Use an AED (Automated External Defibrillator) if one is available. AEDs are safe for use on infants and children. Always follow the device instructions carefully.
2. Attach child or infant pads if available. For infants, place one pad on the chest and one on the back if the pads are too large for side-by-side placement.
3. If only adult pads are available, they can still be used in an emergency, but position one pad on the chest and the other on the back.

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Key Considerations for Infant and Child CPR

When giving infant and child cpr, there are a few critical differences compared to adults that can make a big impact.

1. Airway and Head Positioning
   Infants have delicate airways that can easily become blocked if their head is tilted too far back. For infants, it’s best to keep the head in a neutral position—gently tilt it back just enough to open the airway. A significant tilt, like with adults, isn’t necessary and can actually restrict breathing. For children, a slight head tilt is usually sufficient, but avoid excessive tilting, which could narrow their airway rather than open it.
2. Breath Size and Force
   When giving rescue breaths, remember that both infants’ and children’s lungs are smaller and more fragile than an adult’s. Use only gentle puffs of air for infants, enough to see the chest rise without forcing too much air. For children, you can breathe a bit more forcefully than for an infant, but still less than you would for an adult.
3. Compression Depth and Technique
   Infant and child chests are more flexible, so chest compressions require a lighter touch. For infants, use two fingers just below the nipple line. For children, use one hand or two if needed for older or larger children. Aim for compressions at a depth of one-third of the chest, which provides effective CPR without causing harm.

These adjustments make infant and child CPR is both safe and effective for the unique needs of infants and children, maximising the chance of helping them until medical professionals arrive.

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CPR doesn’t have to be complicated – with a few clear steps, you can feel prepared to act confidently. Remember, staying calm and doing something can make all the difference.

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If you’re a parent, teacher, or caregiver, knowing infant and child cpr is worth it. My First Aid Course Brisbane offers the HLTAID012 Provide First Aid in an Education and Care Setting course, designed specifically for those working with infants and children. With hands-on, nationally recognised training from experienced professionals, you’ll be ready to respond with calm and confidence. Join the thousands in Brisbane who trust My First Aid Course for practical, reliable training that covers everything you need to know.