First Aid procedures: resuscitating babies

What is it?

This technique is for a baby (aged under one) who is unresponsive and isn't breathing.

Actions

Check for vital signs

• If baby fails to respond to a tap or gentle flick on the sole of foot
• Open their airway by gently tilting the head back and lifting the chin
• Check for breathing, look for abdomen movement, listen for breathing, and feel for the baby's breath on your cheek
• Do this for ten seconds

If a baby isn't breathing normally give one minute of CPR which is a combination of chest compressions and rescue breaths (see below) then call an ambulance, if there is another person present, ask them to call an ambulance straight away.

Giving rescue breaths

• Open the airway by placing one hand on the forehead and gently tilt the head back and lift the chin. Carefully remove any visible obstruction from the baby's mouth and nose. Place your mouth over the mouth and nose of the baby and – by blowing steadily - give five initial rescue breaths.
• Then give 30 chest compressions

Giving chest compressions

• Place two fingers in the middle of the chest
• Press downwards sharply no more than a third of the depth of the chest
• Do this at a rate of 100 to 120 times a minute

Continue with cycles of two rescue breaths and 30 chest compressions until emergency help arrives, or the baby starts to shows signs of regaining consciousness (such as coughing, opening their eyes, speaking or moving purposefully and starting to breathe normally).

If you are unable or unwilling to give rescue breaths give chest compressions alone.

Procedure is different for children over one year old. See resuscitating children

The British Red Cross last medically reviewed this article in May 2011.