Final answer:
To give rescue breaths to an infant without a face mask, place your mouth over the infant's nose and mouth, creating a seal, and deliver gentle breaths that make the chest rise. If choking, attempt back slaps and chest thrusts, and for an unconscious infant, initiate CPR while seeking medical help.
Step-by-step explanation:
When giving rescue breaths to an infant without a face mask, you should cover the infant's nose and mouth with your mouth to create a seal and deliver gentle breaths. Each breath should be soft and last about one second, providing enough air to make the infant's chest rise.
If you find yourself needing to give rescue breaths to an infant and do not have access to a face mask or barrier device, follow these steps to ensure proper care:
- First, make sure the infant is lying on a firm, flat surface.
- Open the infant's airway by tilting the head back and lifting the chin.
- Place your mouth over the infant's mouth and nose to create a complete seal.
- Give a gentle puff of breath, just enough to see the chest rise, and not more. This should take about one second.
- Allow time for the chest to fall before giving a second breath.
- If the infant does not respond after five rescue breaths, begin the cycle of CPR.
If an infant is choking and conscious, you can give back slaps and chest thrusts to dislodge the object. For an unconscious choking infant, perform CPR after attempting to remove the visible obstruction if there is one.
Always seek immediate medical assistance when dealing with a choking or non-breathing infant to ensure proper treatment and recovery.