If you identify no normal breathing and no pulse in a child or infant, what should you do?

If you identify no normal breathing and no pulse in a child or infant, what should you do?

• A. Check the pulse for 60 seconds
• B. Begin CPR immediately
• C. Wait for EMS to arrive
• D. Check for breathing for 15 seconds

Answer: (B)

When someone is not breathing normally and has no pulse, their heart isn’t effectively pumping blood. The immediate need is to restore circulation and keep blood flowing to the brain and other vital organs. Starting CPR right away is the best move because it provides artificial circulation while you also deliver rescue breaths to supply oxygen. Begin with chest compressions at a steady rate of about 100–120 per minute. For infants, use two fingers or encircling technique with one hand on the chest, compressing about 1.5 inches. For a child, use one or two hands as appropriate, compressing about 2 inches. If you’re trained, after every 30 compressions, give 2 rescue breaths to help oxygenate the blood; continue the cycle until help arrives or the child shows signs of life. If someone else is present, have them call emergency services and fetch an AED as you start CPR. If you’re alone, perform CPR immediately and call EMS as soon as possible or once you’ve started CPR, depending on your local guidance. The key idea is: no delay—start compressions now to maximize the chance of survival.

When someone is not breathing normally and has no pulse, their heart isn’t effectively pumping blood. The immediate need is to restore circulation and keep blood flowing to the brain and other vital organs. Starting CPR right away is the best move because it provides artificial circulation while you also deliver rescue breaths to supply oxygen.

Begin with chest compressions at a steady rate of about 100–120 per minute. For infants, use two fingers or encircling technique with one hand on the chest, compressing about 1.5 inches. For a child, use one or two hands as appropriate, compressing about 2 inches. If you’re trained, after every 30 compressions, give 2 rescue breaths to help oxygenate the blood; continue the cycle until help arrives or the child shows signs of life.

If someone else is present, have them call emergency services and fetch an AED as you start CPR. If you’re alone, perform CPR immediately and call EMS as soon as possible or once you’ve started CPR, depending on your local guidance. The key idea is: no delay—start compressions now to maximize the chance of survival.