The key differences between adult and pediatric CPR lie in the causes of cardiac arrest, the emphasis on ventilation, compression depth and rate, and the two-rescuer compression-to-ventilation ratio.
Here's a breakdown of the differences:
Causes of Cardiac Arrest
- Adults: Cardiac arrest in adults is typically caused by heart problems, such as heart attack or arrhythmias.
- Children: Cardiac arrest in children is more often caused by respiratory problems, such as choking, drowning, or severe asthma. Therefore, ventilation is a more critical component in pediatric CPR.
Compression Depth
- Adults: At least 2 inches (5 cm) but not more than 2.4 inches (6 cm).
- Children: Approximately 2 inches (5 cm), or about one-third the depth of the chest.
- Infants: Approximately 1.5 inches (4 cm), or about one-third the depth of the chest.
Compression Rate
- Adults, Children, and Infants: 100-120 compressions per minute.
Compression-to-Ventilation Ratio
- Adults: 30:2 (single or two rescuers) - 30 chest compressions followed by 2 rescue breaths.
- Children and Infants (Single Rescuer): 30:2 - 30 chest compressions followed by 2 rescue breaths.
- Children and Infants (Two Rescuers): 15:2 - 15 chest compressions followed by 2 rescue breaths. This lower ratio allows for more frequent ventilation and reduces fatigue for the rescuers.
Hand Placement
- Adults: Two hands in the center of the chest (lower half of the breastbone).
- Children: One or two hands in the center of the chest (lower half of the breastbone), depending on the size of the child. For very small children, one hand may be sufficient.
- Infants: Two fingers in the center of the chest (just below the nipple line). Alternatively, two-thumb encircling hands technique can be used by trained providers.
Summary Table
| Feature | Adult CPR | Pediatric CPR (Child/Infant) |
|---|---|---|
| Cause of Arrest | Primarily cardiac | Primarily respiratory |
| Compression Depth | At least 2 inches (5 cm), no more than 2.4 inches (6cm) | Approximately 2 inches (5 cm) for children, 1.5 inches (4cm) for infants (about 1/3 chest depth) |
| Compression Rate | 100-120 per minute | 100-120 per minute |
| Compression:Ventilation Ratio | 30:2 (one or two rescuers) | 30:2 (one rescuer), 15:2 (two rescuers) |
| Hand Placement | Two hands on lower sternum | One or two hands (child), Two fingers (infant) |
Understanding these differences is crucial for providing effective CPR to individuals of different age groups. Always prioritize calling for emergency services (911 or your local emergency number) as the first step. Consider taking a CPR training course for comprehensive instruction and practice.
