When is it necessary to give CPR to a child?

CPR is necessary when a child is unresponsive and not breathing because this indicates a critical condition that requires immediate intervention. In this situation, the child's heart may not be pumping blood effectively, and they are unable to breathe on their own. Time is of the essence, as brain damage and death can occur quickly without oxygen. Performing CPR helps to maintain blood circulation and oxygenation to vital organs until emergency medical services can arrive or the child starts breathing on their own.

The other scenarios do not require CPR: a child who is sleeping is not in an emergency situation; a fever alone does not indicate cardiac arrest or respiratory failure; and a child who is eating may be in a normal state unless they show signs of choking or distress. Understanding when to initiate CPR is crucial for effective lifesaving response in emergency situations.