ABSTRACT

Which sequence is more appropriate for initial cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) in children: Airway-Breathing-Circulation (A-B-C) or Circulation-Airway-Breathing (C-A-B)? How is the best appropriate ratio of compression-to-ventilation? How much number is enough for the chest compressions? Ventilate or not ventilate during resuscitation of children? The last guideline which is published by the American Heart Association in October 2015 is reviewed to answer these and suchlike questions about the new recommendations on pediatric basic life support. The first one of the new recommendations about this topic is, if available, the use of cellular telephones with speakers to activate emergency response system while beginning resuscitation. The preferred initial CPR sequence is the C-A-B sequence (Compressions-Airway-Breathing) to decrease the time to initiation of chest compressions and reduce “no blood flow” time, as recommended in previous guideline. Chest compressions and rescue breaths should be provided together for pediatric cardiopulmonary arrests because of the asphyxial nature of the majority of arrests in childhood. Compression-only CPR may be effective in children with arrests secondary to a primary cardiac event, however, it is recommended in 2015 guideline only for lay-rescuers who are unwilling or unable to deliver rescue breaths.

Keywords: Basic life support, cardiopulmonary arrest, child, guideline, resuscitation