If a pulse is present but the victim is not breathing normally, how many rescue breaths per minute should be delivered?

If a pulse is present but the victim is not breathing normally, how many rescue breaths per minute should be delivered?

• A. 10-12 breaths per minute
• B. 40-60 breaths per minute
• C. 60-80 breaths per minute
• D. 20-30 breaths per minute

Answer: (D)

When a pulse is present but the person isn’t breathing normally, the goal of rescue breaths is to supply oxygen without over-inflating the lungs. Deliver breaths at a steady, gentle pace: about one breath every 5 to 6 seconds, which equals roughly 10 to 12 breaths per minute. Each breath should last about a second and cause visible chest rise. This rate provides necessary oxygenation while allowing circulation to continue; going much faster can cause hyperventilation and increased pressure in the chest, reducing return of blood to the heart. The other suggested rates are too rapid to be safe or effective; they don’t align with how quickly the body can absorb oxygen without compromising circulation.

When a pulse is present but the person isn’t breathing normally, the goal of rescue breaths is to supply oxygen without over-inflating the lungs. Deliver breaths at a steady, gentle pace: about one breath every 5 to 6 seconds, which equals roughly 10 to 12 breaths per minute. Each breath should last about a second and cause visible chest rise. This rate provides necessary oxygenation while allowing circulation to continue; going much faster can cause hyperventilation and increased pressure in the chest, reducing return of blood to the heart. The other suggested rates are too rapid to be safe or effective; they don’t align with how quickly the body can absorb oxygen without compromising circulation.