CPR (Child) - Circulation

Assess for circulation by trying to locate a pulse. This can only be done by a trained and certified person. If there is no pulse, follow these steps:
1. Place the child on his back on a flat and firm surface.
2. Landmark to find the proper area on the chest for chest compressions. Chest compressions are serial rhythmic compressions of the anterior chest wall that cause the blood to flow to the vital organs in an attempt to keep them alive, until the body can do this on its own. Bare the chest. Locate the xiphoid process (the bottom tip of the breastbone) and compress one finger breadth above this point.
3. Place the heel of your hand on the long axis of the breastbone at the place you have landmarked. Your fingers should be raised off the child's chest. Position your shoulders directly over the child's chest and keep your elbow straight. Use your body weight to exert pressure on the breastbone. For effective chest compressions, depress the chest by approximately 1/3 of the chest diameter. If it is difficult to achieve this diameter, both hands (one on top of the other) may be used. After every compression, release the pressure and leave the chest to recoil whilst leaving the heel in position. Aim for a rate of 100 compressions per minute. Use your free hand to secure the child's head and to tilt the head back to keep the airway open. After a series of 30 compressions, remove your heel and open the airway. Breathe into the child twice and resume chest compressions immediately.
4. Reassess. After a minute of chest compressions interspersed with breaths, stops briefly and check for changes in the airway, breathing and circulation, and for signs of life such as movement. If the child is breathing, discontinue rescue breaths. If the child has a pulse, stop the chest compressions and rush the child to the nearest health facility if no help has arrived. If there is no change, continue until you are too exhausted to carry on or until help arrives. Reassess the infant after every fifth cycle.

Attribution: Avallain

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