Childcare First Aid Practical Guide
Infant and Child CPR: Step-by-Step Guide for Parents and Carers
Quick answer: check danger, response and breathing first, call Triple Zero (000), then start CPR at 30 compressions and 2 breaths until help takes over. For infants and children, the depth is about one-third of the chest.
If you care for babies or school-age children, this is the emergency sequence worth practising before you ever need it.
Table of Contents
Quick Answer
When an infant or child is unresponsive and not breathing normally, call Triple Zero (000) immediately and begin CPR. Use 30 compressions followed by 2 breaths, continue at 100 to 120 compressions per minute, and swap with another helper when possible to reduce fatigue.
Course link: families and educators often train in HLTAID012 Provide First Aid in an Education and Care Setting for child-focused emergencies.
DRSABCD Flow for Infants and Children
- Danger: remove hazards so you and the child are safe before touching them.
- Response: tap and talk to see if the infant or child responds.
- Send for help: call Triple Zero (000) or direct someone nearby to call.
- Airway and breathing: open the airway gently, look for normal breathing, then start CPR if breathing is absent or only gasping.
- CPR and defibrillation: continue 30:2 cycles and use an AED as soon as one is available.
Infant vs Child CPR Technique
- Infants (under 1 year): use two fingers in the centre of the chest, compress one-third depth, then give small breaths that just lift the chest.
- Children (1 year to puberty): use one hand (or two for larger children), compress one-third depth, then provide 2 rescue breaths.
- Both age groups: keep cycles at 30 compressions and 2 breaths until the child breathes normally or paramedics take over.
If an AED arrives, apply it immediately and follow the voice prompts. Early defibrillation plus effective CPR gives the best chance of survival.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
- Tilting an infant’s head too far back instead of keeping a neutral airway position.
- Pressing too shallowly because you are worried about injury.
- Pausing too long between compressions while repositioning or checking again.
- Delaying the Triple Zero call instead of activating help immediately.
Official Sources
- ANZCOR basic life support guidance
- healthdirect Australia: CPR guidance
- Queensland Government: when to call Triple Zero (000)
- training.gov.au: HLTAID012 Provide First Aid in an Education and Care Setting
Training Pathways in Brisbane
If you want hands-on practice, you can compare HLTAID009 Provide Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation, HLTAID011 Provide First Aid, and HLTAID012 Provide First Aid in an Education and Care Setting based on your role and confidence level.
For related practical reading, see our guides on providing first aid when someone is unconscious and first aid for child poisoning.
FAQs
What is the CPR ratio for infants and children?
For a single first aider, use 30 compressions and 2 breaths for both infants and children. Keep the pace around 100 to 120 compressions per minute and press to one-third chest depth.
Should I still start CPR if I am not fully confident?
Yes. Starting CPR early gives the best chance while waiting for ambulance crews. Triple Zero call-takers can coach you while you continue care.
Can I use an AED on a child or infant?
Yes. Use child pads if available. If only adult pads are available, follow prompts and place pads so they do not touch, including front-and-back placement when needed.
Which course is best for parents and educators?
Many start with HLTAID012 Provide First Aid in an Education and Care Setting because it focuses on infant and child emergencies. HLTAID011 Provide First Aid and HLTAID009 Provide Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation are also common options.
Onsite Workplace
Group Bookings
Nationally recognised certificates
10 years of professional training
Sessions tailored for your group
Public
Bookings
Nationally recognised certificates
10 years of professional training
8 locations Brisbane-wide
