Tri-State First Aid and CPR

Adult, Child, and Infant CPR: Key Differences and Techniques

Mar 05, 2025By Steven Fafel
Steven Fafel

Understanding CPR: Why It Matters

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is a critical, life-saving technique that can make a significant difference during cardiac emergencies. Knowing the key differences and techniques for performing CPR on adults, children, and infants is essential for maximizing its effectiveness. This guide will help you understand how to perform CPR correctly across different age groups.

CPR training

Adult CPR: Techniques and Considerations

When performing CPR on adults, it's important to act quickly and efficiently. The main steps include:

  • Check for responsiveness: Tap the person gently and ask loudly if they are okay.
  • Call for help: Dial emergency services if there's no response.
  • Perform chest compressions: Place your hands one over the other in the center of the chest and push hard and fast at a depth of about 2 inches.
  • Provide rescue breaths: If trained, give 2 rescue breaths after every 30 compressions.

Adults require the full force of compressions due to their larger chest size, which is different from techniques used on children or infants.

Child CPR: Adjusting for Size

Children between the ages of 1 and 8 require modifications in CPR technique due to their smaller body size. Here are the steps to follow:

  • Check for responsiveness and call for help: Similar to adult CPR.
  • Chest compressions: Use one hand for compressions instead of both to prevent injury, pressing down about 2 inches.
  • Rescue breaths: After 30 compressions, give 2 gentle breaths, ensuring the chest rises.

The key difference is the reduced pressure applied during compressions, tailored to a child's physique.

child CPR

Infant CPR: Gentle and Precise

For infants under 1 year old, CPR must be performed with extra care. The steps are as follows:

  • Check for responsiveness: Flick the bottom of the foot and call out to see if there's any reaction.
  • Call for help: If unresponsive, contact emergency services immediately.
  • Chest compressions: Use two fingers in the center of the chest, pressing down approximately 1.5 inches.
  • Rescue breaths: Cover the infant's mouth and nose with your mouth, giving 2 gentle puffs of air after every 30 compressions.

The precision and gentleness required for infant CPR highlight the importance of proper technique to avoid causing harm.

infant CPR

The Importance of Training and Practice

While understanding these techniques is crucial, actual CPR training is essential for performing these life-saving measures effectively. Training provides hands-on experience and reinforces the confidence needed during an emergency. Many organizations offer CPR certification courses that cover adult, child, and infant techniques.

Regular practice is also important to maintain familiarity with these techniques. Consider refreshing your skills annually to ensure you are prepared to act when necessary.

Conclusion: Empowering Lifesavers

Knowing how to perform CPR on adults, children, and infants can empower you to act confidently in a crisis. By understanding the key differences in technique, you can provide the best possible care. Remember that taking a certified course will enhance your skills and prepare you to save lives when every second counts.

The knowledge of CPR is not just a skill—it's a responsibility. By staying informed and prepared, you can make a profound difference when it matters most.