Resuscitation Council UK (RCUK) has updated its baby and child CPR book, Aaron's Heart, to reflect important changes introduced in the 2025 Resuscitation Guidelines.
Aaron's Heart provides clear, step-by-step guidance on performing lifesaving CPR for babies aged 0–12 months and children aged 1–18 years. Designed for parents and caregivers, the book aims to equip readers with the skills and confidence to take action when every second counts.
The latest edition includes two significant updates on how to respond when a baby or child is found unresponsive or in cardiac arrest.
- The first change encourages people to call 999 immediately if a baby or child is unresponsive, before checking for breathing. Once connected, emergency call handlers can guide them through the next steps and provide support while an assessment is carried out.
- The second is a change to infant CPR technique, with the guidelines now recommending the two-thumb encircling method for chest compressions instead of the traditional two-finger approach. While cardiac arrest in babies and children is uncommon, it can occur following incidents such as drowning and choking, or as a result of serious illnesses, including sepsis and asthma. Alongside age-appropriate CPR guidance, the book provides practical advice on recognising signs of serious illness, knowing when to seek urgent help, and reducing the risk of accidents and injuries.
Adam Benson Clarke, Clinical Director at Resuscitation Council UK, said: "No parent expects to face a life-threatening emergency involving their child, but knowing what to do in those first few moments can help save a life, as cardiac arrest is the most time-critical medical emergency.
“We’re committed to making lifesaving knowledge accessible to as many parents and caregivers as possible, so they feel empowered to act when every second counts.”
With the latest evidence-based guidance now included, Aaron's Heart is a valuable addition to every family, nursery and school bookshelf, helping parents and caregivers gain the knowledge and confidence to respond in a life-threatening emergency.
Copies of Aaron's Heart are currently on sale at the below cost:
- Single copy is £1.25 + postage and packaging
- Pack of 10 is £7.45 + postage and packaging
- Pack of 25 is £28.13 + postage and packaging
- Pack of 100 is £106.25 + postage and packaging