5b: Two-Rescuer BLS for Infants (2021) OLD

This lesson covers BLS for infants, in two-rescuer situations. Infants are defined as age 0 to 12 months. In two-rescuer situations, each rescuer has specific duties. Clear communication is important to ensure the best possible administration of care. The differences in treatment for infants as opposed to children or adults are discussed.

"The first step is to tap the bottom of their foot and talk loudly at the infant to determine if they are responsive.

If the infant does not respond, have the second rescuer call 911/EMS and get an AED. (The ILCOR emphasizes that cell phones are available everywhere now and most have a built-in speakerphone, so you can call while at the scene.)

Next, assess if they are breathing while simultaneously feeling for the infant’s brachial pulse for 5 but no more than 10 seconds.

If you cannot feel a pulse (or if you are unsure), begin CPR by doing 15 compressions followed by two breaths. If you can feel a pulse but the rate is less than 60 beats per minute, begin CPR. This rate is too slow for an infant.

When the second rescuer returns, begin CPR by performing 15 compressions by one rescuer and two breaths by the second rescuer. If the second rescuer can fit their hands around the infant’s chest, then have them perform CPR using the two-thumb encircling hands method. Make sure not to press on the bottom end of the sternum as it can cause injury. Also, keep in mind that compression depth should be about 1.5 inches (4 cm) deep and at a rate of at least 100 to 120 compressions per minute.

Next, use and follow the AED prompts while continuing CPR until EMS arrives or until the infant’s condition normalizes."

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