MemorialCare - Your Guide to Postpartum and Newborn Care

Infant CPR (under 1 year of age)

When considering CPR, remember C-A-B: C = Compression A = Airway B = Breathing

The thought of having to do CPR on your baby is very frightening. However, there is nothing worse than not knowing what to do in case of such an emergency. An understanding of what to do is so important even with the hope that you never have to use the training.

It is highly recommended that you take an Infant CPR class.

It is usually offered as part of your childbirth education class, but if it is not, you can call your local American Heart Association, American Red Cross or go online to find a schedule of classes close to you. Remembering the letters C-A-B can make it easier to recall what to do in an emergency. Keeping all 3 elements in mind, here are the basics for infant CPR. Infant CPR is a little different from adult CPR, but the concept is the same. Check to make sure the baby is conscious and breathing. • If your baby is not conscious, try to arouse him. NEVER shake your baby! Instead, try tapping the bottom of his feet or rubbing his back. Babies do not like this and will usually respond quickly. • If you are alone and there is no response (crying or stirring), begin giving COMPRESSIONS. If someone is with you, have them call 911 at this time. Begin compressions by placing 2 fingers in the center of his chest, 1 finger width below the nipple line. Compress at least 1/3 the depth of the chest (approximately 1-1/2 inches) to get the heart to pump blood for circulation. • Do 30 compressions, at a rate of 100 per minute, and then briefly check the AIRWAY. Do this by placing the baby on a hard surface (NOT the crib) and tilt his head back in a neutral position. Do not tilt the baby’s head back too far because you will block the airway. • If the baby is not BREATHING, cover the baby’s nose and mouth with your mouth and gently puff 2 times. Look to make sure the chest is rising when you give the puffs of air. A baby’s lungs are smaller than an adult’s, so remember to give only puffs of air, not full breaths. • Continue to do 30 compressions to 2 puffs of air. It should take 2 minutes to do 5 cycles. • If you are alone, and have not done so, notify 911 at this time. • Continue CPR until help arrives.

C = Compression

A = Airway

B = Breathing

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Your Guide to Postpartum and Newborn Care