Compressions: Restore Blood Circulation

Check if the infant's heart is beating. Assess victim's pulse for at least five seconds and no more than 10 seconds by placing two fingers over brachial artery. The brachial artery is located inside the upper arm, between the elbow and the shoulder.  If you do not feel a pulse, then the infant's heart is not beating. Begin chest compressions.

It is important to use caution when rescuing an infant, as baby's ribcage is especially susceptible to damage.

Imagine a horizontal line drawn between the baby's nipples. Place 2 fingers of one hand just below this line, in the center of the chest. Gently compress the chest to about one-third to one-half the depth of the chest. Count aloud as you pump in a fairly rapid rhythm. You should pump at a rate of about 100 times a minute.

DIAL 911. It is critical.

Give 2 breaths after every 30 chest compressions. Compressions should be about 1/2 inch deep. Perform CPR for about two minutes before calling for help unless someone else can make the call while you attend to the baby. Continue CPR until you see signs of life or until a professional relieves you.

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