Illnesses/First Aid

Infant CPR: What Every Parent Should Know

May 9, 2026

Key takeaways: Infant CPR can save a life. Call 911, give chest compressions about 1.5 inches deep (one-third the depth of the chest) at 100 to 120 per minute, and give rescue breaths with a 30:2 ratio for a single rescuer. The 2025 American Heart Association guidelines removed the two-finger technique; compressions are now done with the heel of one hand or two thumbs with hands encircling the chest. Take a hands-on class to learn properly.

This article is an overview, not a substitute for a hands-on CPR class. Classes let you practice on infant mannequins with feedback.

When to Start CPR

Start CPR if your baby is unresponsive and not breathing normally (or only gasping).

Basic Steps for Infants (Under 1 Year)

  1. Check for responsiveness: tap the foot and shout.
  2. Call 911. If you’re alone, give about 2 minutes of CPR before leaving to call, unless you can call on speaker right away. Put your phone on speaker.
  3. Place your baby on a firm, flat surface.
  4. Give 30 chest compressions on the center of the chest, just below the nipple line, using the heel of one hand or both thumbs with your hands encircling the chest. Press about 1.5 inches deep (about one-third the depth of the chest) at 100 to 120 per minute, letting the chest fully rise between compressions.
  5. Give 2 rescue breaths: tilt the head slightly to open the airway, cover your baby’s mouth and nose with your mouth, and give gentle breaths that make the chest rise.
  6. Continue 30 compressions and 2 breaths until help arrives, an AED is ready, or your baby starts breathing.

AEDs

AEDs can be used on infants, ideally with pediatric pads. If unavailable, adult pads may be used as directed.

Choking First Aid for Infants

If your baby is choking and can’t cry, cough, or breathe:

  • Give 5 back blows between the shoulder blades with your baby face down along your forearm, head lower than chest.
  • Give 5 chest thrusts with your baby face up, using the heel of one hand on the center of the chest.
  • Repeat until the object comes out or your baby becomes unresponsive.
  • If unresponsive, start CPR and call 911.
  • Don’t do blind finger sweeps.
  • Don’t use abdominal thrusts on infants.

Where to Take a Class

  • American Heart Association.
  • American Red Cross.
  • Many hospitals and community centers.

The Bottom Line

Learn infant CPR and choking first aid in a hands-on class, and refresh your skills regularly.

Want more support for your baby’s first year? My book, From First Breath to First Birthday, is available on Amazon.

Sources

  1. American Heart Association. 2025 American Heart Association and American Academy of Pediatrics guidelines for cardiopulmonary resuscitation and emergency cardiovascular care: pediatric basic life support. https://cpr.heart.org
  2. American Red Cross. Infant CPR and choking. https://www.redcross.org
  3. American Academy of Pediatrics. Choking and CPR for infants. HealthyChildren.org. https://www.healthychildren.org

This article is for general education and is not a substitute for individualized medical advice. Always talk with your baby’s health care provider or your own provider about your specific situation. If you think your baby or you may have a medical emergency, call 911.

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