Child CPR Resource Page

If you’re in an emergency, call 000

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to perform CPR on children ages 1-8.

We also have specific guides for children above 8 and adults, infants and during pregnancy.

*Please note, the information below does not replace first aid training.*

Before starting CPR:

Make sure that you have used the DRSABCD action plan below. This will help you assess any potential dangers and give you the best opportunity to help the patient.

Starting CPR:

After following the DRSABCD steps, if you deem it necessary, begin CPR.

Kneel beside the child and place them on a firm surface on their back.
Place the heel of one hand in the centre of the chest, with the other hand interlocked on top (as seen below).
Straighten your arm and position yourself over the top of the casualty’s chest.

4.Use the weight of your body and push your hands down to roughly 1/3 of the depth of their chest.

5. Release the pressure and push down again.

After 30 compressions, give 2 rescue breaths

6. To ensure that the patient is in the correct position, place one hand on their forehead and the other hand under their chin to tilt their head back.

7. Pinch their nose with your thumb and index finger and use your other hand to open their mouth.

8. Take a breath and form a seal around the patient’s mouth. Blow for about one second and look for the chest to rise and fall. Then give a second breath.

Using an AED (Defibrillator)

Most businesses house an AED, so if an AED is available, use it.

If an AED is available, attach the pads as demonstrated in the picture below and follow its instructions.

The AED looks at the heart rhythm every 2 minutes and may deliver a shock to the patient. It will tell you before it does so.

In between every analysis- keep performing CPR.

If the pads are too close together, place one on the centre of the child’s chest and the other on the centre of their back.

When to stop CPR

Only stop CPR if one of the following has occurred:

The child returns to breathing normally
It is impossible to continue
A health care professional takes over
The situation is too dangerous to keep going

If the child starts breathing

If the patient is breathing, continue to monitor them and place them in the recovery position, as shown below:

Looking for more information?

Click here to access our printable guides to CPR.

Click here to see when the next CPR course near you is available.