For the basic CPR taught in first aid, use 30 compressions followed by 2 breaths for adults, children and infants. If someone is unresponsive and not breathing normally, call 000 and begin. If you can't give breaths, keep giving compressions.
The ratio stays the same. What changes with a baby is how you position your hands and how hard you press, and that's something you need to feel on a manikin, not just read about.
That's normal. CPR fades quickly when you don't use it, which is exactly why it's updated regularly. Your update is hands-on and gets you feeling ready again.
Book your updateAn AED saying "no shock advised" does not mean the person has recovered. If they are still unresponsive and not breathing normally, resume CPR when the AED prompts you.
Some cardiac arrest rhythms cannot be treated with a shock. Your compressions are still doing the vital work of moving blood around the body until help arrives.
Your update includes hands-on AED practice so the prompts feel familiar, not frightening.
Book your updateIf a child under eight needs an AED, use child pads and paediatric mode if available. Otherwise, use the adult pads.
Follow the pad diagrams and keep the pads apart. If they would touch on a small chest, place one on the chest and one on the back.
Never cut or alter AED pads. Using the adult pads correctly is far better than not using the AED at all.
Guidelines and equipment change. Your update keeps you across what's current and gives you time on the AED trainer.
Book your updateIf someone with known asthma and a food, insect or medicine allergy has sudden breathing difficulty after possible allergen exposure, give their adrenaline device first and call 000, then give their asthma reliever. Follow their ASCIA plan.
Anaphylaxis can look like an asthma attack, and it can happen without hives or a rash. Waiting to be sure can cost precious time.
Read more: Asthma or Anaphylaxis? Why Adrenaline Comes Before the Inhaler
Your update is a chance to practise with adrenaline trainers again and catch up on anything that has changed.
Book your updateFor a responsive adult or child with an ineffective cough, call 000 and give up to 5 back blows, then up to 5 chest thrusts if needed, checking after each attempt. Repeat while the blockage remains. If they become unresponsive and are not breathing normally, start CPR.
Only remove an object from the mouth if you can see it and reach it easily. A blind finger sweep can push it deeper.
Read more: Choking in Adults: The Australian First Aid Response
Back blows and chest thrusts need practice to get the force and position right. Your update gives you that practice.
Book your updateBefore you step in to help, check what could hurt you, the injured person or anyone nearby. Traffic, electricity and unstable surroundings can turn one emergency into several, so keep checking as the situation changes.
Responsiveness and breathing come next, but only once it's safe to get close.
In a real emergency, you won't have time to think it through. Regular practice makes the steps automatic.
Book your updateTraining and Assessment is delivered by Britt at Regional Education and Career Help Australia on behalf of ABC First Aid RTO 3399.
In an emergency, call 000. This page is general information and does not replace hands-on training.