When performing CPR on an infant, use two fingers in the center of the chest, just below the nipple line, to give chest compressions, along with gentle rescue breaths that cover both the nose and mouth.

Basic infant CPR technique

  • Place the infant on a firm, flat surface on their back before starting CPR.
  • Put 2 fingers (usually index and middle) on the center of the chest, just below the nipple line, and press down about 1.5 inches at a rate of 100–120 compressions per minute.
  • After 30 compressions, give 2 gentle breaths, sealing your mouth over both the infant’s nose and mouth and watching for the chest to rise.

Key differences from adult CPR

  • Use fingers, not the heel of your hand, because an infant’s chest is small and fragile.
  • Compress to about one-third of the chest depth (around 1.5 inches) rather than the deeper compressions used for older children and adults.
  • Breaths must be much smaller and gentler, just enough to make the chest rise slightly.

Safety note

  • Always check that the scene is safe and call for emergency help as soon as possible in any suspected cardiac arrest.
  • Formal, hands-on CPR training is strongly recommended so you can practice these techniques correctly before an emergency occurs.

TL;DR: When performing CPR on an infant you should use two fingers in the center of the chest for compressions plus gentle breaths covering both the nose and mouth.