In the case of a child who is unresponsive and not breathing, how should CPR be performed?

When providing CPR for a child who is unresponsive and not breathing, utilizing one hand for chest compressions is the recommended approach. This technique is appropriate because a child's chest is smaller and requires less force to achieve adequate compressions. Using one hand helps ensure that you can maintain effective compressions while also being gentle enough to avoid injury.

The guidelines emphasize the importance of performing high-quality compressions at an adequate depth and rate, which for children typically means compressing at a depth of about 1.5 to 2 inches at a rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute. Transitioning to one hand allows for better control and stability during the process, which is key in maintaining effective blood circulation.

Other methods, such as using two hands, may not be as effective for the smaller size of a child, and only providing rescue breaths would not ensure adequate circulation without compressions. It's essential to maintain a balance of chest compressions and rescue breaths during CPR to maximize the chance of successful resuscitation.