CPR and AEDs for Children: A Comprehensive Guide for Schools and Homes

Caitlin-Renèe Holmes

Published:27 November 2024

Performing CPR and using an AED on children requires a unique approach. Children’s smaller bodies and different physiological needs mean that techniques must be adapted from adult practices. Whether at school, at home, or in the community, understanding how to respond to a cardiac emergency involving a child can save lives.

Here, we’ll cover everything you need to know about performing CPR and using AEDs on children, ensuring you’re prepared for the unexpected.

Why Cardiac Arrest in Children is Different

Cardiac arrest in children is often caused by respiratory issues or trauma rather than underlying heart conditions. This makes timely intervention even more critical. According to the Resuscitation Council UK, survival rates increase significantly when bystanders perform CPR and use an AED promptly.

In environments such as schools and homes, where children spend most of their time, being equipped with the knowledge and tools to act can make the ultimate difference.

Recognising a Cardiac Emergency in a Child

Early recognition is vital. Signs of cardiac arrest in children include:

Unresponsiveness.
Absence of normal breathing (gasping is not considered normal).
No detectable pulse.

If you notice these symptoms:

Call emergency services immediately.
Prepare to administer CPR and use an AED.

How to Perform CPR on Children

Step 1: Check for Responsiveness

Gently tap the child’s shoulder and ask loudly, “Are you okay?”
If there’s no response, shout for help and designate someone to call emergency services.

Step 2: Open the Airway

Tilt the child’s head back slightly and lift their chin to open the airway.
Look for any obstructions and remove them carefully if visible.

Step 3: Deliver Rescue Breaths (if trained)

Pinch the child’s nose shut.
Create a seal over their mouth with yours and deliver two gentle breaths, watching for chest rise.
If you’re untrained or uncomfortable with rescue breaths, hands-only CPR is still effective.

Step 4: Perform Chest Compressions

Place one hand on the centre of the chest (for younger children) or both hands (for older children).
Push hard and fast at a depth of about 5 cm (2 inches), allowing the chest to recoil fully after each compression.
Aim for a rate of 100–120 compressions per minute.

Step 5: Alternate Between Compressions and Breaths

If providing rescue breaths, alternate 30 compressions with 2 breaths.
Continue until an AED is available or emergency services arrive.

27 November 2024

Using an AED on Children

AEDs like the iPAD NFK200 Semi-Automatic Defibrillator are designed to be user-friendly and suitable for children when equipped with appropriate features like paediatric pads or a switch. Here’s how to use one effectively:

Step 1: Turn on the AED

Follow the device’s voice and visual prompts.

Step 2: Apply the Pads

Use paediatric pads if available, or activate the paediatric mode on devices like the iPAD SP1 Fully Automatic Defibrillator.
Place one pad in the centre of the child’s chest and the other on their back (if specified by the AED’s instructions). For larger children, follow the adult pad placement diagram.

Step 3: Let the AED Analyse

Ensure no one is touching the child while the AED analyses their heart rhythm.

Step 4: Deliver the Shock (if prompted)

For semi-automatic AEDs, press the shock button when instructed.
Fully automatic AEDs will deliver the shock without user intervention.

Step 5: Resume CPR

Continue CPR immediately after the shock, as advised by the AED. Alternating between compressions and AED usage maximises the chances of restarting the heart.

Key Differences in Child and Adult Resuscitation

Compression Depth: For children, compressions should be about 5 cm (2 inches), less than for adults.
Rescue Breaths: Recommended for children as their cardiac arrest often stems from breathing problems.
Pad Placement: Paediatric pads or modified placement for standard pads ensures the shock targets the heart correctly.

For devices equipped with dual-mode functionality, such as the iPAD SP1, switching between adult and paediatric settings is seamless.

Preparing Schools and Homes for Cardiac Emergencies

At Schools:

Install AEDs in visible, central locations like hallways or sports facilities.
Conduct regular CPR and AED training for teachers, staff, and students.
Develop a clear emergency response plan and practice drills.

At Home:

Keep AEDs like the iPAD NFK200 accessible if a child has a known heart condition.
Familiarise all family members with CPR and AED usage.
Ensure the AED is maintained with regular checks on battery life and pad expiration dates.

Common Myths About AED Use on Children

1-Myth: AEDs are too powerful for children.

Truth: Modern AEDs adjust the shock strength automatically or offer paediatric settings, ensuring safe and effective treatment for children.

2- Myth: Only medical professionals can use AEDs.

Truth: AEDs are specifically designed for use by laypersons, with step-by-step voice prompts to guide you.

Why CPR and AED Awareness Matters

In a cardiac emergency, every second counts. Immediate action can double or even triple survival rates. By equipping schools and homes with the right knowledge and tools, we can create safer environments for children.

Explore AEDs designed for community use and indoor settings to find the best device for your needs.

A Lifesaving Commitment: Protecting Our Children

Cardiac emergencies are rare but critical moments where preparation and education make all the difference. By understanding how to perform CPR and use AEDs on children, we can ensure the safety of the most vulnerable members of our communities.

Invest in knowledge. Invest in life-saving tools. Be the hero your child, student, or neighbour might one day need.