Where do I put my hands?

Just below the nipple line on the breastbone. Use two fingers if alone or the two-thumb encircling-hands technique with a partner.

How hard should I push?

About 1.5 inches deep — roughly one-third the depth of the chest.

Can I use an AED on an infant?

Yes — use pediatric pads and place them front-and-back so they don't overlap.

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Infant CPR (Under 1 Year): Step-by-Step

Infant CPR (under 1 year, excluding newborns in delivery) uses two fingers or the two-thumb encircling hands technique to compress about 1.5 inches deep at 100–120 per minute.

Quick facts

Depth: about 1.5 inches (one-third chest depth)
Single rescuer: 2-finger compressions, 30:2
Two rescuers: 2-thumb encircling hands, 15:2
Use pediatric AED pads (front-back) when available

Positioning the infant

Place the infant on a firm, flat surface. Keep the head in a neutral 'sniffing' position — do not hyperextend the neck.

Rescue breaths

Cover the infant's mouth and nose with your mouth. Give gentle puffs just enough to see the chest rise — over-inflating pushes air into the stomach.

Choking vs arrest

A conscious choking infant gets 5 back blows and 5 chest thrusts. An unresponsive infant starts CPR, checking the mouth for visible objects before each breath cycle.

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Frequently asked questions

Where do I put my hands?: Just below the nipple line on the breastbone. Use two fingers if alone or the two-thumb encircling-hands technique with a partner.
How hard should I push?: About 1.5 inches deep — roughly one-third the depth of the chest.
Can I use an AED on an infant?: Yes — use pediatric pads and place them front-and-back so they don't overlap.

Related guides

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Healthcare providers need BLS-level CPR with team dynamics, bag-mask ventilation, and 2-year renewal. Here's how to choose and maintain the right course.

Adult CPR

Learn adult CPR step by step: check responsiveness, call 911, push hard and fast at 100–120 BPM, 2 inches deep, and attach an AED as soon as one arrives.

Child CPR (Ages 1 to Puberty)

Child CPR uses about 2 inches of compression depth and 30:2 (single rescuer) or 15:2 (two rescuers). Give 2 minutes of CPR before leaving to call 911 if alone.

Workplace CPR and OSHA Compliance

OSHA requires trained responders when medical help isn't 'near proximity.' Workplace CPR + First Aid + AED training keeps employers compliant and employees safer.