Pediatric Basic Life Support Algorithm - Single Rescuer

The initial step in a single-rescuer pediatric BLS scenario is to verify unresponsiveness and assess for absent or abnormal breathing (e.g., gasping).
The rescuer must simultaneously check for a central pulse for a duration of 5 to 10 seconds; the brachial pulse is palpated in infants, while the carotid pulse is used for older children.
If a palpable pulse is present (and $\geq$ 60 beats/min) but breathing is inadequate, the rescuer should provide isolated rescue breaths at a rate of 12 to 20 breaths per minute (1 breath every 3 to 5 seconds).
If the pulse is absent, or if the heart rate is $< 60$ beats/min accompanied by signs of poor systemic perfusion, the rescuer must immediately initiate cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).

CPR must be initiated following the C-A-B (Compressions-Airway-Breathing) sequence, prioritizing immediate chest compressions over airway management.
Compression Rate: High-quality compressions must be delivered at a strict rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute.
Compression-to-Ventilation Ratio: For a single rescuer managing an infant or child (prior to puberty), the mandatory ratio is 30 chest compressions followed by 2 rescue breaths.
Compression Depth: The chest must be compressed to at least one-third of its anterior-posterior diameter. This translates to approximately 4 cm (1.5 inches) in infants and 5 cm (2 inches) in children.
Hand Placement Technique: For infants, a single rescuer should utilize the 2-finger technique positioned in the center of the chest, just below the nipple line. For children, the heel of one or two hands should be placed on the lower half of the sternum.

After 30 compressions, the rescuer must open the airway using the head tilt-chin lift maneuver (or a jaw thrust if cervical trauma is suspected).
Deliver two effective rescue breaths, each lasting 1 second, providing only enough tidal volume to achieve visible chest rise.
The rescuer must allow full chest recoil after every compression to optimize venous return and must limit any interruptions in chest compressions to less than 10 seconds.