As parents, grandparents, and preschool teachers, ensuring the safety of young children is always a priority. One vital skill to have is knowing how to perform CPR, especially when it comes to infants. While CPR techniques are similar across all age groups, there are key differences between infant and adult CPR that must be understood to provide the right level of care.

In this blog, we’ll cover the basics of baby CPR training, highlighting the differences between adult and baby CPR, why these differences matter, and how taking a baby CPR course can help you feel confident in an emergency.

Parent performing baby CPR using two fingers for chest compressions, demonstrating proper infant CPR technique learned in a baby CPR training course.

Why Infant CPR is Important

 

Infants are fragile, and their bodies are much more sensitive than those of older children and adults. Knowing baby CPR can mean the difference between life and death if a baby stops breathing or their heart stops beating. With young children being at risk of choking or breathing issues due to small objects, illnesses, or accidents, it’s essential that parents, caregivers, and teachers are equipped to respond quickly.

Key Differences Between Adult and Baby CPR

Understanding these differences is crucial, as improper technique can lead to further harm or reduce the effectiveness of CPR.

1. Hand Placement and Compression Force

  • Adult CPR: For adults, two hands are used to apply pressure to the center of the chest. Compressions should be about 2 inches deep.
  • Infant CPR: Since babies are much smaller and more delicate, only two fingers are used to perform compressions. These compressions should be about 1.5 inches deep. This minimises the risk of injury while still being effective in maintaining circulation.

2. Compression to Ventilation Ratio

  • Adult CPR: The compression to ventilation ratio in adult CPR is typically 30 compressions followed by 2 rescue breaths.
  • Infant CPR: The same ratio of 30:2 applies when performing CPR on an infant. However, the size and anatomy of a baby mean the breaths need to be much gentler. A full adult breath can overwhelm a baby’s lungs, so caregivers should provide small puffs of air.

3. Head Tilt and Airway Opening

  • Adult CPR: The airway is opened by tilting the head back and lifting the chin. Adults have a more robust airway, so this technique usually works well.
  • Infant CPR: Because infants have more flexible airways, it’s important to be very gentle when tilting the head back. Only a slight head tilt is needed to open the airway in a baby.

4. Rescue Breathing Technique

  • Adult CPR: In adults, rescue breaths are given by pinching the nose and delivering air through the mouth.
  • Infant CPR: For infants, you need to cover both the baby’s mouth and nose with your mouth when giving rescue breaths. This ensures that the smaller airways are properly filled with air. The breaths should be gentle—enough to see the chest rise but not forceful.

5. Recognising Cardiac Arrest

  • Adult CPR: Cardiac arrest in adults is often caused by heart conditions such as heart attacks.
  • Infant CPR: In infants, cardiac arrest is more often caused by breathing problems, choking, or severe trauma. The signs to look for in a baby are different—they may be limp, unresponsive, or have an abnormal skin color.

Why Take a Baby CPR Course?

Learning infant CPR through a baby CPR course provides hands-on experience, so you’re prepared for any emergency. Here are a few reasons why enrolling in a course is a good idea:

  • Practice Makes Perfect: Reading about CPR is helpful, but hands-on practice ensures you know how to perform the technique correctly. A baby CPR training course gives you the opportunity to practice with infant mannequins.
  • Learn About Choking Hazards: Babies are at a high risk for choking on small objects. CPR courses often include a section on how to help a choking infant, giving you the skills to respond quickly and effectively.
  • Understand the Signs of Distress: A baby in cardiac or respiratory distress might not show the same signs as an adult. Learning to recognise when an infant is in trouble is a key part of baby CPR training.
  • Gain Confidence: One of the biggest benefits of taking a baby CPR course is the confidence it gives you to act in an emergency. Knowing you’ve trained properly ensures you can stay calm and composed during critical moments.

When Should You Use Baby CPR?

Baby CPR should be used when:

  • The infant is not breathing or is only gasping for breath.
  • The baby is unresponsive even after tapping and shouting their name.
  • There is no sign of normal breathing within 10 seconds.

In these situations, time is critical. Call emergency services immediately and begin CPR if you are trained.

Additional Tips for Performing Baby CPR

  • Check the Scene: Make sure the environment is safe before starting CPR. For example, if the infant has fallen or suffered an accident, ensure there are no hazards around.
  • Act Quickly: Every second counts. Begin CPR as soon as it is clear that the baby is not responding and breathing abnormally.
  • Stay Calm: It’s natural to feel panic in emergencies, but staying as calm as possible will help you focus and apply your CPR skills effectively.
  • Follow Up with Medical Care: Even if the infant recovers, it’s crucial to have them examined by a medical professional. Babies are sensitive, and any disruption in breathing or heart function can have serious consequences.

Knowing the difference between adult and baby CPR is essential for anyone who cares for infants. From using less force in chest compressions to giving gentler breaths, these distinctions are designed to protect the baby’s delicate body while providing lifesaving care. Taking a baby CPR course is the best way to learn these skills in-depth and practice in a safe environment.

By equipping yourself with baby CPR training, you are taking a proactive step to ensure the safety and well-being of the infants in your life.