Learning Child CPR can save a Child’s Life

A recent study by the National Institutes of Health shows CPR to be effective in children who suffer from non-traumatic cardiac arrest due to drowning, choking or even electrocution. Choking is a common reason to carry out CPR in children under 5. The most likely need for CPR in children is due to respiratory distress and arrest which then will cause the heart to stop.

CPR is most successful when started as quickly as possible after you determine that it is necessary, which should only be administered when a child isn’t breathing or circulating blood adequately. What would you do if a child went into cardiac arrest? Calling 911 should always be the first step, but you should immediately start cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) before the professionals arrive because it would greatly increase the chances of survival.

CPR can save a child’s life by restoring blood flow to the brain, heart, and other organs and restoring breathing until advanced life support can be given by health care provider, when performed correctly. The Heart Center can provide students with the most educational and convenient training in the DC area. For more information visit our website or call 202-536-7972.