Understanding CPR: Adult, Child, & Infant 

CRP (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) stands as a critical intervention in emergency medical care. Administering the life-saving skill can double or triple the victim’s survival rate. While the core principle of CPR is the same, there are significant differences in CPR techniques for various age groups. The best way to be fully qualified to perform CPR on individuals of all ages is to enroll in a CPR class tailored specifically to each age group. Read on to learn more!

Understanding the Key Differences Between Adult, Child and Infant CPR

Before enrolling in CPR class for adults, children, and infants, it is important to grasp the physical difference between their body types. Adults typically have greater muscle mass compared to children and infants. Their rib cages are stronger, which requires more force during chest compressions to stimulate blood circulation. Conversely, children and infants have smaller, more pliable chests, where performing excessively forceful compressions can cause harm.

Additionally, children have a faster metabolic rate and higher oxygen demands per kilogram of body weight than adults. As a result, their tolerance for oxygen deprivation is lower, increasing the need for prompt and precise CPR intervention.

Here’s a quick overview of the differences in CPR class techniques for adults, children, and infants:

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CPR Techniques for Adult

Adult CPR classes teach the appropriate techniques that suit the fully developed bodies of adults or older people. Here’s a step-by-step guide on performing adult CPR techniques:

• Assessment – Begin by assessing the area for safety and checking the victim’s responsiveness. Tap on their shoulder and ask, “Are you okay?” If there is no response, proceed to the next step.
• Call for Help: If bystanders are present, instruct them to call emergency services or activate the local emergency response system.
• Airway Management: Tilt the victim’s head back and lift their chin to open the airway. Look and listen for any signs of breathing. If the victim is not breathing or only gasping, start performing CPR immediately.
• Compressions: Move next to the victim’s chest. Place the heel of one hand on the center of the victim’s chest, between the nipples. Place your other hand on top and interlock your fingers. Keep your arms straight and your shoulders directly above your hands. Perform compressions at a rate of 100-120 per minute, allowing the chest to fully recoil between compressions.
• Breaths: After performing 30 compressions, give two rescue breaths. Maintain an open airway using the head-tilt and chin-lift maneuvers. Pinch the victim’s nose shut and create a tight seal over their mouth with your own. Deliver each breath over one second. If the chest does not rise, reposition the head and try again.
• Continued CPR: Continue CPR cycles of 30 compressions and two breaths until medical services arrive or the victim starts breathing on their own.
• AED (Automated External Defibrillator): If an AED is available, follow the prompts and apply it as soon as possible.

CPR Techniques for Child

If you have attended the CPR class for children, you know it greatly varies from adult CPR techniques. The ratio of chest compressions to rescue breaths should be 30:2, and the chest compression depth should be about 4 cm. When performing CPR on a child, follow these steps:

• Check for Responsiveness: Tap the child’s shoulder and ask loudly if they are okay. Call emergency medical services if the child does not respond.
• Check for Breathing: Look for chest movement and listen for breath sounds. If the child shows no signs of breathing, perform CPR immediately.
• Position Them on Their Back: Place the child on a firm surface on their back, such as a table or the floor.
• Perform Chest Compressions: Kneel beside the child and place the heel of your hand on the center of the child’s chest. Interlock the fingers of both hands, placing the heel of your second hand on top of your first. Press down firmly, compressing the chest about 4 cm.
• Rescue Breaths: Pinch the child’s nose shut and give one breath into the child’s mouth. Each breath should last about a second and make their chest rise.
• Continue CPR: Alternate 30 chest compressions with 2 rescue breaths. Continue CPR until the child begins to breathe without difficulty.

CPR Techniques for Infants

Unlike the CPR class for children and adults, CPR for infants must be started immediately. Performing CPR on infants should be delicate, as their bodies are fragile. Follow these steps:

• Check for Responsiveness: Tap the infant’s foot and watch for any reaction. Call emergency medical services immediately if there is no response.
• Chest Compressions: Place two fingers on the center of the infant’s chest. The compressions should be about 1.5 inches deep and done at a rate of 30 compressions to 2 rescue breaths.
• Rescue Breaths: The rescue breaths should be gentle. Tilt the infant’s head just enough to open the airway, making sure not to tilt it too far. Use your cheeks to hold your breath and gently puff air into the infant’s nose and mouth.

Master the CPR Techniques and Save a Life!

Mastering CPR techniques for adults, children, and infants is crucial, as the anatomy and physiology of each age group are different. Whether you are a healthcare professional or a concerned bystander, the knowledge gained from CPR certification provides valuable life skills for emergencies.  By enrolling in a CPR class,  you can save lives and create a network of potential responders within your community.