During rescue breathing for adults vs children/infants, which statement is true about the breathing rate?

During rescue breathing for adults vs children/infants, which statement is true about the breathing rate?

• A. Adults: 1 breath every 2 seconds; Children/Infants: 1 breath every 6 seconds
• B. Adults: 1 breath every 6 seconds; Children/Infants: 1 breath every 2-3 seconds (20-30 breaths/min)
• C. Adults: 1 breath every 8 seconds; Children/Infants: 1 breath every 4 seconds
• D. Adults: 1 breath per minute; Children/Infants: 1 breath per minute

Answer: (B)

Rescue breathing rate differs by age because oxygen needs and airway dynamics change with size and metabolic demand. The goal is to deliver enough air without over-ventilating, which can cause air to enter the stomach or raise intrathoracic pressure and hinder CPR. For adults, a breath every six seconds (about 10 breaths per minute) is appropriate. For children and infants, delivering a breath every two to three seconds (about 20–30 breaths per minute) helps maintain oxygenation since they desaturate more quickly and have higher relative oxygen needs. This aligns with giving breaths at these respective intervals to balance effective ventilation with the risk of hyperventilation. Ensure each breath makes the chest rise without forcing air in too forcefully.

Rescue breathing rate differs by age because oxygen needs and airway dynamics change with size and metabolic demand. The goal is to deliver enough air without over-ventilating, which can cause air to enter the stomach or raise intrathoracic pressure and hinder CPR. For adults, a breath every six seconds (about 10 breaths per minute) is appropriate. For children and infants, delivering a breath every two to three seconds (about 20–30 breaths per minute) helps maintain oxygenation since they desaturate more quickly and have higher relative oxygen needs. This aligns with giving breaths at these respective intervals to balance effective ventilation with the risk of hyperventilation. Ensure each breath makes the chest rise without forcing air in too forcefully.