According to American Heart Association guidelines, Child CPR is used for children from about 1 year of age through puberty. Children have a better chance of survival when CPR is started as soon as possible.
Child CPR
Before You Begin
Children most often experience cardiac arrest as a result of breathing problems rather than heart disease. Common causes include:
- Choking, suffocation, or strangulation
- Drowning
- Injuries
- Poisoning
- Severe infection
- Medical conditions affecting breathing or the brain
Check for responsiveness. Gently tap or shake the child and shout, “Are you OK?” Look for movement, sounds, or a response.
If there is no response, shout for help. If someone is nearby, have them call 911. If you are alone, begin CPR and continue for about 1–2 minutes before leaving the child to call 911 and get help.