The Importance of Knowing Infant CPR and AED Use in Emergencies

Having an understanding of infant CPR and AED (Automated External Defibrillator) use is essential in emergencies. Being equipped with tools and best practices can transform a worried bystander into an active participant in a child’s healthcare, and can significantly increase an infant’s chances of survival if their heart stops beating or they stop breathing. 

According to the American Heart Association, cardiac arrest in infants, while rare, can take place due to various factors, including congenital heart defects, trauma and respiratory issues. Being able to take immediate action in these types of emergencies can mean the difference between life and death. 

Recognizing an Infant Emergency

Recognizing an infant in distress is critical for timely intervention. Signs of cardiac arrest in infants can include unresponsiveness, limp body, lack of breathing, fixed or dilated pupils and seizures. Additionally, breathing irregularities such as gasping or complete cessation of breath can indicate a life-threatening situation, along with dizziness and unexplained fainting. In these moments, it is vital to call emergency services immediately while preparing to administer proper CPR. The sooner help is on the way, the better the chances of a positive outcome for the infant.

Infant CPR Techniques

Administering CPR to an infant is different from administering CPR to an adult or even a child. Infant CPR is recommended for children less than 12 months of age and involves specific techniques to ensure safety and effectiveness. 

The first step is to make sure that the environment is clear and safe, then it is recommended to position the infant on their back on a firm, flat surface. From there, chest compressions should begin by using two fingers to compress the center of the infant’s chest, about 1.5 inches deep, at a rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute. After every 30 compressions, it is recommended to give two rescue breaths by sealing your mouth over the infant’s mouth and nose and providing gentle breaths until you see the chest rise. This cycle of 30 compressions, followed by two breaths, should continue until emergency services arrive or the infant shows signs of recovery.

Using the Avive Connect AED on Infants

The Avive Connect AED is designed to be user-friendly and effective for children aged one year and older, making it an invaluable tool for caregivers and first responders. With Avive’s AllRescue Technology, we aim to improve cardiac arrest outcomes for traditionally underserved groups, including women, children, and non-English speakers.

An infant is typically defined as a child from birth to one year old, though some definitions may extend this to include those up to two years. Our Child Mode button is specifically designed for children aged 1-8 years, allowing for the delivery of a low-energy shock appropriate for infants and young children by simply pressing the built-in Child button. This makes the Avive Connect AED safe to use on infants aged one year and older. Additionally, our universal electrode pads work for both adults and children, streamlining emergency response and reducing costs.

The Avive Connect AED features clear audio and visual prompts to guide users through the resuscitation process, making it accessible even for those without prior training. The device automatically adjusts the energy level based on the patient’s age and weight, delivering appropriate shocks while minimizing risks. This technology is crucial in emergencies, ensuring timely and effective help, even for very young patients.

Addressing Concerns and FAQs

Many parents, caregivers and people who are around children may have concerns about best practices when it comes to CPR or using an AED on children and infants. One of the most common questions is how CPR techniques differ from adults to children, and the safety of using an AED on a small child. While the fundamental principles remain the same, the methods and the amount of pressure used differ due to the infant’s size and fragility. Here’s the breakdown of differences and similarities: 

General Positioning

• Adults: Kneel beside the adult.
• Children: Kneel beside the child.
• Infants: Stand or kneel to the side of the baby, with hips at a slight angle.

Hand Position

• Adults: Two hands centered on the chest.
• Children: One hand (or two fingers for small children) on the center of the chest with the other hand on top, fingers interlaced and off the chest.
• Infants: Both thumbs side-by-side on the center of the chest, just below the nipple line, with fingers encircling the chest for support.

Compression Technique

• Adults: 100 to 120 chest compressions per minute, 30 at a time; depth of at least 2 inches; allow chest to fully recoil.
• Children: 100 to 120 compressions per minute; push down hard and fast about 2 inches; keep arms straight with shoulders over hands.
• Infants: 100 to 120 compressions per minute; push down about 1 ½ inches using both thumbs; use two fingers for smaller infants if needed.

Airway and Breathing

• Adults: Open the airway using the head-tilt/chin-lift technique; give 2 breaths lasting about 1 second each, ensuring the chest rises.
• Children: Open the airway to a slightly past-neutral position using the head-tilt/chin-lift technique; give 2 breaths lasting about 1 second each; if the first breath doesn’t work, retilt the head and ensure a proper seal.
• Infants: Open the airway to a neutral position using the head-tilt/chin-lift technique; give 2 breaths lasting about 1 second each.

Continuing CPR

• All Ages: Continue giving sets of 30 chest compressions and 2 breaths until emergency services arrive or an AED is available. Minimize interruptions to compressions to less than 10 seconds.

Conclusion

In summary, understanding infant CPR and AED use is vital for responding effectively in emergencies involving young children. Being prepared with the right knowledge and tools empowers bystanders to act decisively, significantly enhancing an infant’s chances of survival in critical situations. Recognizing signs of cardiac distress—such as unresponsiveness or breathing irregularities—allows for prompt intervention and the immediate call for emergency services. Proper infant CPR techniques differ from those for adults and older children, emphasizing gentle but effective methods to provide life-saving assistance. 

The Avive Connect AED, designed for ease of use, further supports caregivers and first responders by providing clear guidance and adjusting energy levels based on the patient’s age. Addressing common concerns about CPR and AED use reinforces the importance of training and awareness, ensuring that every caregiver feels equipped to act in a life-threatening situation. Ultimately, being informed and prepared can make all the difference when seconds count.

For those seeking to improve their skills, organizations like the American Heart Association and local hospitals offer training sessions and materials. Investing time in learning these skills equips caregivers with the confidence to act decisively in emergencies, ultimately saving lives!