CPR is a combination of rescue breathing, which provides oxygen to the victim's lungs, and chest compressions, which keep oxygenated blood circulating.

Alternative Names

Rescue breathing and chest compressions - child; Resuscitation - cardiopulmonary - child; Cardiopulmonary resuscitation - child

Prevention

The most common situations in which young children need CPR are car accidents, drowning, fires and burns, suffocation, and unintentional firearm accidents. With this in mind, remember that simple measures can help prevent accidents.

Teach your child the meaning of "No!"

Teach your children the basic principles of fire

safety .

Teach your child to swim.

Teach your child pedestrian safety and bicycle safety.

Never let a child ride in a car without a car seat or safety belt firmly in place.

Teach your child firearm safety.

Never underestimate what a child can do. Play it safe, and assume the child is more mobile and more dexterous than you thought possible. Think ahead to what the child may get into next, and be ready. Climbing and squirming are to be expected. Always use safety straps on high chairs and strollers. Recognize what is age-appropriate for children, especially when choosing toys. Do not give small children 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. Dangers, such as electrical outlets, stove tops, and medicine cabinets are attractive to small children. Inspect toys for fragility, small or loose parts, sharp edges, projectiles, and other hazards. Choose non-toxic toys, paints, markers, and crayons .