CPR, or cardiopulmonary resuscitation, is a combination of rescue breathing and chest compressions in an attempt to maintain the flow of oxygen. CPR is an appropriate response in instances of drowning, suffocating, choking or injury, according to Medline Plus. A special set of steps must be followed when performing CPR on an infant, specifically a child under the age of 1.
Step 1
Check the infant for responsiveness by shouting or gently tapping him or her. If there is no response, such as movement or crying, place the infant gently on his or her back.
Step 2
Open the airway by lifting up the infant's chin slightly. Use the opposite hand to simultaneously push down on his or her forehead. Make sure you do not tip the head too far back.
Step 3
Check for breathing. Lean in close to the nose and mouth to determine if breathing is audible or can be felt on your ear. Watch the chest for movement.
Step 4
Begin giving breaths if the infant is not breathing. Cover the infant's nose and mouth with your mouth, creating a seal. Keeping the head slightly tilted back, give two breaths with just enough force to cause the chest to rise. If the chest does not rise, the airway may not be open properly, and you must reposition the infant's head. Remove your mouth from the infant's airway between each breath. Breaths should last for approximately one second each.
Step 5
Begin chest compressions. Place two fingers slightly under the nipples while keeping your other hand on the infant's forehead. Give 30 chest compressions in quick succession, pressing the chest down approximately half of its depth. After each compression, make sure to let the chest return to its starting position before beginning another compression.
Step 6
Check the infant for responsiveness. If there is no response, repeat the rescue breathing and chest compression cycle.
Step 7
Call for help. After two minutes of unsuccessful attempts, discontinue CPR just long enough to call for emergency help. Resume CPR after emergency services have been notified. Continue CPR until help arrives.
