How Do You Provide Rescue Breathing For A Child?
Many types of injury can cause breathing to stop, depriving the brain of precious oxygen. Rescue breathing – also known as mouth-to-mouth resuscitation – can save a life. Determine if the surrounding scene is safe (see “How to Maximize the Safety of an Emergency Scene During First Aid”). Determine if the injured child is breathing (see “How to Check Airway, Breathing and Circulation”). If not, continue with the steps below. Position the injured child on his or her back, being extremely careful not to move or twist the head, neck or spine. If several rescuers are present, use their assistance to minimize this danger (for a related technique, see “How to Logroll an Injured Person”). Maintain an open airway while you pinch the injured child’s nose shut. Give two long, slow breaths, being sure to maintain a seal between your mouth and the child’s. Check again for breathing and pulse (see “How to Check Airway, Breathing and Circulation”). Give one slow breath every 3 seconds for 20 breaths
