Infant CPR: Complete Step-by-Step Guide Every Parent Should Know

When to Perform Infant CPR

Perform CPR if your baby: is not breathing or only gasping, is unresponsive (doesn't react to stimulation), has no pulse (or you're unsure). Common causes in infants: choking, drowning, suffocation, SIDS, severe infection. If you see the baby become unresponsive, start CPR immediately while someone calls 911.

Step-by-Step Infant CPR

1. CHECK: Tap the bottom of baby's foot and shout. If no response: 2. CALL 911 (if alone, do 2 minutes of CPR first, then call). 3. POSITION: Place baby on a firm, flat surface face-up. 4. OPEN AIRWAY: Tilt head back slightly (neutral position — don't over-extend). 5. GIVE 2 BREATHS: Cover baby's mouth AND nose with your mouth. Give 2 gentle puffs (just enough to see chest rise). 6. COMPRESSIONS: Place 2 fingers on center of chest, just below nipple line. Push down 1.5 inches, fast (100-120 per minute). Give 30 compressions. 7. REPEAT: 2 breaths, 30 compressions. Continue until baby responds or help arrives.

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Infant Choking Response

If baby is choking (coughing, gagging, unable to cry/breathe): 1. Place baby face-down on your forearm, head lower than body. 2. Give 5 firm back blows between shoulder blades with heel of hand. 3. Turn baby face-up. Give 5 chest thrusts (2 fingers, center of chest, like compressions). 4. Repeat back blows and chest thrusts until object is expelled or baby becomes unresponsive. If unresponsive: start CPR and look in mouth for object before each breath.

Take a Class

Reading about CPR is valuable, but hands-on practice is essential for confidence and proper technique. The American Red Cross and American Heart Association offer in-person and hybrid infant CPR classes. Many hospitals offer free classes for new parents. Practice on an infant CPR mannequin — the muscle memory matters in an emergency.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this information medically reviewed?

Yes. All Wermom medical content is reviewed by board-certified pediatricians and OB-GYNs. We follow guidelines from the AAP, ACOG, WHO, and CDC. However, this information is educational and doesn't replace personal medical advice from your healthcare provider.

When should I call my doctor?

Trust your instincts. If something feels wrong or you're concerned about your baby's health, call your pediatrician. They'd rather hear from you with a question that turns out to be nothing than miss something important. For emergencies (difficulty breathing, unresponsiveness, seizures), call 911 immediately.