If your child ever loses consciousness and stops breathing due to an accident, illness or choking on an object, you want to be prepared to step in and help resuscitate your baby or child. Learning infant and child CPR gives you the opportunity to learn the first aid skills necessary to be prepared in case of an emergency.
History
According to the University of Washington, Doctors James Elam and Peter Safar discovered "mouth-to-mouth ventilation" and subsequently developed modern cardio pulmonary resuscitation, CPR. Later, three other doctors, Doctors Williams Kouwenhoven, Guy Knickerbocker and James Jude realized that performing chest compressions gave patients support with circulation. The two discoveries were combined in the 1960s, giving way to current knowledge of CPR.
Class Types
The American Red Cross and American Heart Association offer infant and child CPR certifications. Take and online CPR certification course if you are unable to attend a class in person. Contact the American Red Cross, the American Heart Association or call you local community center or hospital to find a class near you. Take a class specifically designed for an infant and child certification or choose a class that includes instruction and certification from infants through adults.
Time And Cost
The minimal cost of the classes and small investment of time pay for themselves when you have the skills needed to handle an emergency. According to the American Red Cross, an infant class lasts 3 3/4 hours and certifies you in CPR for babies up to 1 year old. Attending a 4 1/4 hour class teaches you child and infant CPR. Spend the extra half an hour and get certified for both age groups, especially if your baby is young or you plan to have other children in the future. The cost varies according to region, but is generally less than $50.
Class
Pick a class time that is convenient for your family. When you attend a class, the instructor will give you reference materials and ask you to sit down. He will teach you what to do if your baby or child is not breathing due to choking or a drowning, says BabyCenter website. The instructor will break the class into sessions for infants and children, as the techniques are different for each age group. He will also cover infant and child first aid, childproofing techniques and child safety ideas. You may watch videos, practice on mannequins and discuss questions as a class.
Considerations
As a certified Infant and child CPR parent, you should consider asking your childcare provider, your spouse and your child's grandparents to take the certification classes. Any adult who has contact with your infant or child needs to be able to perform CPR in case of an emergency. Renew your certification as recommended by your instructor. Consider coordinating a class through your church, day care or neighborhood association.
