When a child becomes unresponsive and stops breathing, the situation requires immediate and decisive action. Such an emergency can be profoundly distressing, yet remaining composed and acting swiftly can significantly influence the outcome. Understanding the correct steps to take in these critical moments is paramount, as prompt intervention often provides the best chance for survival. Preparing for such unforeseen events by knowing fundamental emergency responses helps empower caregivers to act effectively under pressure.
Recognizing the Emergency and Calling for Help
Upon discovering an unresponsive child, quickly assess the situation. Gently tap the child’s shoulder and shout, asking “Are you okay?” to check for any response. Observe if the child is breathing normally; gasping or absence of breathing indicates a serious problem. Before approaching, ensure the immediate surroundings are safe for both the child and the rescuer.
Activating emergency medical services (EMS) is the next crucial step. Call 911 or your local emergency number without delay. If you are alone and witnessed the child collapse, call for help immediately before starting cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). However, if the collapse was unwitnessed, or if you are alone, perform approximately two minutes of CPR before making the call. When another person is present, one individual should call for help while the other begins CPR.
When speaking with the dispatcher, clearly state that a child is unresponsive and not breathing. Provide your exact location, including the street address and any distinguishing landmarks, to help emergency responders reach you quickly. Remain on the line with the dispatcher, as they can offer guidance and instructions until professional help arrives.
Administering CPR for Children and Infants
Administering high-quality cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is a fundamental intervention when a child is unresponsive and not breathing. Effective CPR involves delivering chest compressions at an adequate rate and depth, allowing the chest to fully recoil between compressions, minimizing interruptions, and avoiding excessive ventilation. The recommended compression rate for both infants and children is 100 to 120 compressions per minute. For a single rescuer, the compression-to-ventilation ratio is 30 compressions followed by two rescue breaths. If two rescuers are present, the ratio changes to 15 compressions to two breaths.
For infants under one year of age, place two fingers on the center of the chest, just below the nipple line, for single-rescuer compressions. If two rescuers are available, the two-thumb encircling hands technique is recommended. Compress the infant’s chest approximately 1.5 inches (4 cm), which is about one-third of the chest’s anterior-posterior diameter. When delivering rescue breaths to an infant, use a mouth-to-mouth-and-nose technique, ensuring a slight head tilt.
For children aged one year to puberty, use the heel of one hand, or two hands for a larger child, placed on the lower half of the breastbone. The compression depth for children should be about two inches (5 cm), or roughly one-third of the chest’s anterior-posterior diameter. Rescue breaths for children are given mouth-to-mouth, utilizing a head tilt-chin lift maneuver to open the airway. Each rescue breath should last about one second and be sufficient to make the child’s chest visibly rise.
Individuals providing emergency care are often protected by Good Samaritan laws, which offer legal immunity to those who voluntarily assist in an emergency without expectation of compensation and within the scope of their training. These laws encourage bystanders to intervene and provide life-saving aid without fear of legal repercussions, as long as they act in good faith. This legal framework supports individuals in performing CPR.
Actions While Awaiting Emergency Medical Services
Once CPR has been initiated, it is important to continue these life-saving measures without interruption until emergency medical services (EMS) arrive, an automated external defibrillator (AED) is ready for use, or the child shows clear signs of recovery, such as breathing normally. Maintaining a consistent rhythm and depth of compressions is critical for blood circulation. Even if you become tired, persist with CPR until trained professionals can take over.
Should the child resume breathing normally while you are waiting for EMS, carefully place them in a recovery position. For a child, position their nearest arm at a right angle to their body, bring the other hand across their chest and place its back against the cheek nearest to you, then bend their far knee and roll them onto their side. Ensure their head is tilted back to keep the airway open and continue to monitor their breathing closely. For an infant, cradle them in your arms, face down on your forearm, with their head supported and tilted slightly downwards to help prevent choking.
If the child regains consciousness, try to keep them calm and comfortable. Speak reassuringly and avoid overwhelming them with questions. Provide any blankets or warmth if available, as a child who has experienced a medical emergency may feel cold or disoriented.
When EMS personnel arrive, provide a concise summary of the events, any relevant medical history, and a list of any medications the child may be taking. This information helps them provide the best care.
To facilitate the arrival of emergency services, if possible, unlock the front door and direct someone to meet the responders outside to guide them to your location. Clear pathways and accessible entrances can save precious time. While EMS generally determines the most appropriate medical facility for transport, you can communicate any preferences or relevant information regarding the child’s usual healthcare providers. Remain with the child at all times, never leaving them unattended, until EMS has taken full responsibility for their care.