Compressions: Restore Blood Circulation
Check for a pulse and normal breathing. Take no more than 10 seconds to assess. If the child is not breathing normally and has no pulse, begin chest compressions.
Perform 30 chest compressions followed by 2 rescue breaths. Count compressions out loud and allow the chest to fully recoil between compressions.
Because a child’s body is smaller and more fragile than an adult’s, use less force. Compress the chest about 2 inches (5 cm), or about one-third the depth of the chest.
Use one or two hands, depending on the size of the child. Place the heel of one hand in the center of the chest (on the lower half of the sternum). If needed, place your other hand on top.
Push hard and fast at a rate of 100–120 compressions per minute. Minimize interruptions and continue CPR until help arrives, an AED is ready to use, or the child starts breathing normally.