What guideline should you follow when initiating CPR on a 15-month-old patient?

When initiating CPR on a 15-month-old patient, following pediatric guidelines is essential because children have different anatomical and physiological characteristics compared to adults and infants. Pediatric guidelines target the specific needs and responses of children at various developmental stages. For a 15-month-old, who is considered a toddler, these guidelines include using one hand for chest compressions rather than two, taking into account the child’s smaller size and chest depth. Additionally, the compression to ventilation ratio and the depth and rate of compressions differ from those used for adults and infants.

By adhering to the pediatric guidelines, you ensure that the CPR is tailored appropriately for the child's age, which maximizes the chances of successful resuscitation and minimizes the risk of injury during the process. This age-specific approach is crucial—recognizing that a 15-month-old is not an infant, where different techniques apply, nor should adult protocols be implemented, as they could be too forceful and inappropriate for a child's delicate frame. Advanced resuscitation techniques are not relevant at this stage and would generally be reserved for trained medical professionals in specific situations.