Final Answer:
For child CPR by a single rescuer, the recommended ratio of compressions to breaths is 30:2. Administer 30 chest compressions followed by 2 rescue breaths, and continue this cycle until emergency help arrives or the child begins breathing on their own.
Step-by-step explanation:
For a child (aged 1 to puberty) in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) performed by a single rescuer, the recommended ratio of compressions to breaths is 30:2. This means 30 chest compressions are delivered followed by 2 rescue breaths.
1. Check Responsiveness:Check if the child is responsive by tapping or gently shaking them and shouting.
2. Activate Emergency Response System: If the child is unresponsive, activate the emergency response system or have someone else do it.
3. Check Breathing: Check for normal breathing for no more than 10 seconds. If the child is not breathing or only gasping, begin CPR.
4. Chest Compressions: Perform chest compressions. Use the heel of one or two hands (depending on the child's size) on the center of the chest, compressing to a depth of at least one-third the depth of the chest. Do this at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute.
5. Rescue Breaths: After 30 compressions, provide 2 rescue breaths. Ensure a good seal over the child's mouth and nose, and give breaths over about one second each, watching for chest rise.
6. Continue CPR:Continue with the cycles of 30 compressions and 2 breaths until emergency medical help arrives or the child starts breathing on their own.
It's important to note that the guidelines for CPR may be updated, and it's advisable to stay current with any changes in guidelines from authoritative sources such as the American Heart Association or relevant national resuscitation councils. Additionally, if you're not trained in CPR, it's recommended to seek proper training from certified courses.