Pediatric Basic Life Support (Single Rescuer)
A fast, modern overview of pediatric BLS for a single rescuer—BLS sequence, breathing & pulse checks, rescue breathing, CPR ratios, AED, and shockable vs nonshockable rhythms.
Educational only—follow local protocols and a licensed clinician’s direction.
Verify Scene Safety & Activate Help
- Ensure scene safety, then check for responsiveness and shout for help.
- Activate the emergency response system (use mobile device if alone).
Breathing & Pulse—Assess Together (≤10 seconds)
No normal breathing, pulse felt?
Provide rescue breathing and reassess pulse every 2 minutes.
- If HR < 60/min with signs of poor perfusion → start CPR.
No breathing/gasping and no pulse felt
Start CPR immediately.
Rescue Breathing (when pulse is present)
| Action | Key points | Referral |
|---|---|---|
| Breath rate | 1 breath every 2–3 seconds (~20–30/min) with visible chest rise | Rescue Breathing |
| Pulse checks | Reassess every 2 minutes (≤10 s) | Breathing & Pulse |
| Device | Use barrier device or bag-mask; ensure good seal | Bag-Mask Ventilation |
CPR for the Single Rescuer
Compression–Ventilation Ratios
- 1 rescuer: cycles of 30 compressions : 2 breaths
- 2 rescuers (when help arrives): cycles of 15 : 2
- Use an AED as soon as it becomes available
If alone after ~2 minutes
- Activate the emergency response system (if not already)
- Retrieve an AED/defibrillator
AED & Rhythm Check
Shockable rhythm
- Give 1 shock, resume CPR immediately for 2 minutes
- Follow prompts; continue until ALS takes over or child shows signs of life
Nonshockable rhythm
- Resume CPR immediately for 2 minutes (until AED prompts rhythm check)
- Continue cycles until help arrives or recovery
Use pediatric pads if available; if not, adult pads that do not touch each other may be used.
Cited Keywords & Referral Links
Each keyword links to the main website or a related post on gyathshammha.com.
Bottom line
For pediatric single rescuers: ensure scene safety, assess breathing and pulse together, deliver rescue breathing when a pulse is present, start CPR if no pulse or HR < 60 with poor perfusion, and use an AED as soon as it’s available.
This guide is for education and does not replace clinical judgment or local protocols.