CPR for infants

Alternative names:

rescue breathing, chest compressions - for infants; resuscitation, cardiopulmonary - for infants

Prevention:

Never underestimate what a child can do - play it safe and assume that the child is more mobile and more dexterous than you thought possible. Never leave a baby unattended on a bed, table, or other surface from which the baby could roll.

Recognize what is age-appropriate for children - especially when choosing toys. Don't give infants toys that are heavy or fragile or that have batteries or small parts.

Create a safe environment and supervise children carefully - particularly around water and near furniture. Know where your children are and what they are doing at all times. Never leave a baby in a mesh playpen with one side down. To reduce the risk of choking accidents, make sure children do not come into contact with buttons, watch batteries, popcorn, coins, grapes, or nuts. It is also important to sit with a child while he or she eats. Do not prop bottles, and do not allow a child to crawl around while eating.

Never tie pacifiers (or anything else) around a baby's neck.

Start teaching your child the meaning of "Don't touch." The earliest safety lesson is "No!"

Update Date: 10/08/99

Updated by: adam.com editorial