How to do CPR for a Newborn Baby?

Although we believe (and pray) that our children will never need CPR it is always recommended to know how and when to do CPR. Providing timely CPR can save a life.

Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)  is a life-saving method of chest pumping compressions and mouth to mouth breathing which helps to move oxygen-rich blood from the heart to all parts of the body. If the baby stops breathing, it is a sign that he or she is not getting enough oxygen.

If the baby is not breathing

If you think that baby is not breathing, check the baby for responsiveness.

1.            Call his or her name aloud and check whether the baby is showing any response or opening eyes.

2.            Tap the heel of the baby’s foot.

3.            Squeeze their shoulder. Meanwhile, call for an ambulance.

4.            Turn the baby flat on his back on a hard surface.

5.            Check baby’s mouth for airway blockages, food vomit, blood or even tongue. Gently clean it with your little finger.

6.            Observe the baby’s chest and face for 5 seconds (but not more than 10 seconds) to see if the baby is breathing.

If baby starts responding, place baby on his side with head tilted down and observe him until help arrives. You can give rescue breaths if necessary. (See below.)

7.            If the baby is still not moving, it is time to start Baby CPR.

New-born Baby CPR (under 1 year)

•             Remove his clothes. Put two fingers on the centre of the baby’s chest just below the nipples, do 30 compressions at a rate of 2 compressions per second. Press down approximately one third the depth of the chest.

•             Hold baby’s head in such a way that the chin is lifted slightly. You can place your hand on the baby’s forehead to tilt the head back. This is to open the baby’s airways.

•             Take a breath and seal the baby’s mouth and nose with your mouth (and hands if necessary). Blow gently into the baby’s mouth (not more than 1 second). Watch for the chest to rise and fall. Repeat this 2 times.

•             Repeat the entire process (30 compressions and 2 rescue breaths, repeatedly) until help arrives or the baby starts showing signs of life.

If the baby starts breathing, place the baby in the recovery position – on his sides -and observe him until help arrives.

Please note that gasping cannot be considered normal breathing.

Also Read: How to burp a newborn baby?

Summarizing

1. Chest compressions  – 30 times.

2. Check airways.

3. Rescue Breathing – 2 times.

Repeat the process.

Disclaimer: The above steps are reviewed and verified by a practicing medical professional. But we urge the readers to undergo CPR training and learn the correct technique.