Infants are especially vulnerable during emergencies because their airways and bodies are small and delicate. When an infant stops breathing or becomes unresponsive, immediate and correct CPR can save their life.

Every parent and caregiver should consider learning CPR through CPR certification to be prepared for these critical moments.

When Should You Perform Infant CPR?

Begin infant CPR if a baby (under 1 year old):

  • Is unresponsive
  • Is not breathing or is only gasping
  • Shows no signs of circulation

Quick action significantly improves survival and outcomes.

Step 1: Ensure Safety and Check Responsiveness

  • Make sure the environment is safe
  • Gently tap the infant’s foot and speak loudly
  • Watch for movement or response

If there is no response, call emergency services immediately or ask someone nearby to do so.

Step 2: Position the Infant Correctly

Proper positioning is essential:

  • Place the infant on a firm, flat surface
  • Keep the head in a neutral position
  • Avoid over-tilting the head

Training through online CPR certification helps caregivers learn correct positioning.

Step 3: Give Chest Compressions

Proper Technique

  • Use two fingers in the center of the chest, just below the nipple line
  • Compress about 1.5 inches (4 cm) deep
  • Allow full chest recoil

Compression Rate

  • 100–120 compressions per minute

Gentle but effective compressions are key for infants.

Step 4: Provide Rescue Breaths

After 30 compressions:

  • Cover the infant’s mouth and nose with your mouth
  • Give 2 gentle breaths
  • Each breath should last about 1 second and make the chest rise

Avoid forceful breaths to prevent lung injury.

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Step 5: Continue CPR Until Help Arrives

Continue CPR until:

  • Emergency responders arrive
  • The infant starts breathing normally
  • You are physically unable to continue

Persistence can make the difference between life and death.

Why Infant CPR Training Is Essential

Infant emergencies often happen at home. Formal training through basic life support certification teaches parents and caregivers how infant CPR differs from adult and child CPR.

First Aid Skills Every Caregiver Should Have

CPR is only part of infant emergency preparedness. Courses offering CPR and first aid certification also cover:

  • Choking relief
  • Breathing emergencies
  • Injury management

These skills provide comprehensive protection for infants.

Learn Infant CPR at Your Convenience

Busy parenting schedules shouldn’t prevent lifesaving education. With CPR online classes, caregivers can:

  • Learn from home
  • Train at their own pace
  • Stay prepared at all times

Convenient training leads to better preparedness.

Final Thoughts: Preparation Saves Infant Lives

Infant CPR is a skill no parent or caregiver ever hopes to use—but everyone should know. Learning the correct steps and practicing them through proper training can save a child’s life during the most critical moments.

Be prepared.
Stay calm.
Save a life.

Get Your CPR Certification Today