When a choking infant becomes unresponsive, what is the one thing that need to be done differently when performing CPR?

When a choking infant becomes unresponsive, one key thing that must be done differently during CPR is to ensure that the airway is cleared before administering breaths. Here are the detailed steps to follow:

1. Assess the Situation: Confirm that the infant is unresponsive and has lost the ability to breathe. You should also check for any visible obstruction in the airway.

2. Call for Help: If you are alone, quickly call emergency services or ask someone nearby to do so while you begin CPR.

3. Positioning: Place the infant on a flat, firm surface. If you suspect that they are choking, you may need to attempt to remove the obstruction first before you start traditional CPR.

4. Chest Compressions: Use two fingers in the center of the infant's chest, just below the nipple line, and perform 30 compressions at a rate of about 100-120 compressions per minute.

5. Open the Airway: After compressions, before giving breaths, the airway must be opened. Use the head-tilt, chin-lift technique carefully.

6. Check for Obstruction: If you suspect that the infant is choking, look in the mouth to see if there is any visible obstruction. If you see it, attempt to remove it with your fingers, but do not perform blind sweeps.

7. Give Breaths: After clearing the airway, give 2 gentle breaths, ensuring that you see the chest rise. Each breath should take about 1 second.

8. Repeat: Continue the cycle of 30 compressions and 2 breaths, while checking for signs of life and ensuring that the airway remains clear.

It's crucial to adapt your CPR technique to the situation of choking, as clearing the airway is essential before delivering breaths.