When performing CPR on a 5-month-old baby, the techniques used should be equivalent to which age group?

When performing CPR on a 5-month-old baby, the techniques must be equivalent to those used for an infant. This is due to the physiological differences between infants and older children or adults. Infants require a gentler approach since their bodies are smaller and more delicate.

The CPR technique for infants includes a specific method of providing breaths and compressions that emphasizes using only two fingers for chest compressions and ensuring that the breaths are given with a careful seal over the baby’s mouth and nose. The rationale behind this is to avoid causing injury to their fragile ribcage and to ensure that the breaths are effective without over-inflation.

Using child or adult techniques would not be appropriate because their anatomy and needs differ significantly from those of an infant. Thus, understanding the distinct approaches required for infants is crucial for effectively administering CPR and ensuring the best chance of positive outcomes in emergencies involving very young children.