Step-by-step CPR actions for adult, child, and infant
Manual chest compressions combined with rescue breaths are the basic actions used when a person suddenly collapses and is not breathing normally. This page covers how to recognize a cardiac arrest, secure the scene, start effective chest compressions, give basic breaths, operate an automated external defibrillator, and adjust technique for children and infants. It also explains when to call emergency medical services and why certified training matters.
Recognizing cardiac arrest and unresponsiveness
Look for a person who is not moving and does not wake when you tap and shout. Check whether breathing is normal — gasping does not count as normal breathing. If the person is unresponsive and not breathing normally, treat the situation as a cardiac arrest and prepare to act immediately. Clear, quick checks can save time before help arrives.
Scene safety and calling for help
Before touching the person, scan for hazards like traffic, fire, or downed power lines. If the area is safe, call emergency medical services or ask a bystander to call. If you are alone with a collapsed adult, call first if possible; for unwitnessed collapse in children, some guidance recommends delivering brief care first while someone calls. Follow local emergency dispatch instructions; dispatchers can give step-by-step guidance.
Chest compression technique and rate
Place the heel of one hand at the center of the chest on the lower half of the breastbone. Put your other hand on top and interlock fingers. Keep arms straight and shoulders over your hands so compressions go straight down. Use your body weight to push, not just arm strength.
Aim for a compression depth of about 2 inches (5 cm) for adults. Compress at a steady rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute — roughly the tempo of a brisk song. Allow the chest to fully recoil between compressions so blood can refill the heart. Minimize pauses; if you must switch rescuers, do it quickly.
| Person | Compression depth | Rate | Hand placement | Compression-to-ventilation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adult | About 2 inches (5 cm) | 100–120/min | Two hands, center of chest | 30 compressions : 2 breaths |
| Child (1–puberty) | About 2 inches (5 cm) or one-third chest depth | 100–120/min | One or two hands, center of chest | 30:2 (single rescuer) or 15:2 (two rescuers) |
| Infant (under 1 year) | About 1.5 inches (4 cm) or one-third chest depth | 100–120/min | Two fingers on the sternum (single rescuer) | 30:2 (single rescuer) or 15:2 (two rescuers) |
Rescue breaths and airway basics
After 30 compressions, open the airway using a gentle head tilt and chin lift. Pinch the nose on an adult and child, cover the mouth with yours, and give two breaths. Each breath should be about one second and make the chest rise. If the chest does not rise, recheck head position and airway for blockages. If you are uncomfortable giving breaths or are untrained, continuous chest compressions alone are better than stopping to attempt breaths.
Automated external defibrillator (AED) use
Turn the AED on as soon as one is available and follow voice prompts. Expose the chest, wipe away moisture, and apply pads as shown on the device. Ensure no one touches the person while the AED analyzes heart rhythm or delivers a shock. After a shock or if no shock is advised, resume compressions immediately. Devices from established manufacturers include clear pictorial instructions and are designed for use by lay rescuers.
Modifications for children and infants
Children and infants need gentler force and smaller hand position. For a single rescuer on a child, one hand may be enough for compressions; for an infant, use two fingers in the center of the chest. When two rescuers are present for a child or infant, rescuer rotation and a 15:2 compression-to-breath ratio may be used. Causes of arrest in younger patients often include airway or breathing problems, so prioritize opening the airway and giving effective breaths when safe and possible.
When to activate emergency medical services
Call emergency medical services immediately if a person is unresponsive and not breathing normally. If you are alone with an adult, use your phone quickly and begin CPR; if others are present, ask someone specific to call while you start compressions. Provide clear location and condition details to dispatchers. If an automated external defibrillator is nearby, have someone bring it to the scene while compressions continue.
Practical constraints and accessibility considerations
Physical strength and body size affect how long a rescuer can do compressions effectively; swapping rescuers every two minutes helps keep compressions deep and steady. Some people may be unable to give breaths for personal or medical reasons; continuous compressions are still helpful. Public access to defibrillators varies; check local workplaces and community centers for devices. Language barriers or noisy environments can make dispatcher guidance harder to follow; identify a clear caller early. Training programs often include simulated practice to address these constraints and improve confidence.
Limitations of self-guided instruction
Reading step-by-step guidance can increase awareness, but hands-on practice teaches timing, force, and teamwork in ways a text cannot. Self-study cannot replicate the feedback from instructors, manikins, or supervised practice. Recognized organizations such as the American Heart Association and the European Resuscitation Council recommend formal courses for skill retention and assessment. Use written guidance as a supplement, not a replacement, for practical training.
Next steps for training and preparedness
Look for certified basic life support or first aid courses from established providers. Courses typically include live practice on manikins, AED handling, and scenario drills that build muscle memory. Employers, community centers, and local health organizations commonly offer classes. Regular refreshers — often every one to two years depending on the provider — help maintain effective technique and confidence.
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Core steps at a glance
If someone collapses and is unresponsive and not breathing normally: ensure scene safety, call emergency services, start chest compressions at 100–120 per minute with appropriate depth, give two breaths after 30 compressions if trained, use an AED as soon as possible, and swap rescuers frequently. For children and infants, use gentler depth and adjusted hand placement. These actions stabilize circulation and buy time until professional help arrives.
This article provides general information only and is not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Health decisions should be made with qualified medical professionals who understand individual medical history and circumstances.
