Pediatric Basic Life Support (BLS) is an essential emergency procedure aimed at preserving the lives of infants and children facing cardiac arrest or respiratory failure. This comprehensive protocol involves a sequence of actions, including initial evaluation, airway maintenance, precise chest compressions, and effective rescue breaths. Rapid and accurate implementation of Pediatric BLS by healthcare professionals greatly enhances the probability of reinstating circulation and oxygen supply, serving as a crucial link to advanced medical interventions for young patients in critical scenarios.
1. Initial Assessment:
- Prioritize personal safety before approaching the patient.
- Assess the child's responsiveness by tapping and calling
out loudly.
- If the child is unresponsive, call for help immediately.
2. Activate Emergency Response:
- If you're alone, activate the emergency response system
(call for help) before starting any interventions.
3. Open the Airway:
- Gently tilt the child's head back while lifting the chin
upward.
- Remove any visible obstructions from the mouth, if
present.
4. Check for Breathing:
- Spend no more than 10 seconds to observe, listen, and feel
for breathing.
- If the child is not breathing or only gasping, initiate
CPR immediately.
5. Perform Chest Compressions:
- Lay the child on a firm surface, such as the floor.
- For infants (under 1 year), use two fingers to compress
the chest just below the nipple line.
- For children (1 year and older), use both hands to
compress the chest at least one-third of its depth.
- Maintain a compression rate of 100-120 compressions per
minute.
6. Administer Rescue Breaths:
- After 30 compressions, give two rescue breaths.
- Ensure an open airway and deliver a breath that causes the
chest to visibly rise.
7. Continue CPR Cycles:
- Continue cycles of 30 compressions and 2 breaths until
professional medical help arrives or the child shows signs of life.
8. Utilize an Automated External Defibrillator (AED):
- If accessible, attach an AED as soon as possible and
follow its automated prompts.
9. Maintain BLS Until Professional Help Arrives:
- Keep performing CPR cycles and using the AED until medical
professionals arrive on the scene.
Please remember that the information provided here is for
educational purposes only. For accurate and up-to-date guidelines, always refer
to recognized sources such as the American Heart Association (AHA) or Pediatric
Advanced Life Support (PALS) programs. Proper training and certification are
essential to ensure you are equipped to handle emergency situations effectively
and confidently.
