During resuscitation with a pulse, how often should breaths be delivered?

During resuscitation with a pulse, how often should breaths be delivered?

• A. Every 5-6 seconds
• B. Every 10 seconds
• C. Every 2 minutes
• D. Every 60 seconds

Answer: (A)

During resuscitation when there is a pulse but the patient isn’t breathing adequately, the goal is to provide ventilation at a steady, sustainable rate. For adults, give one breath every 5 to 6 seconds, about 10–12 breaths per minute, with each breath lasting around one second and causing visible chest rise. This pace maintains oxygenation without causing hyperventilation, which can reduce venous return and compromise circulation. For contrast, in children the rate is a bit faster, about one breath every 3–5 seconds.

During resuscitation when there is a pulse but the patient isn’t breathing adequately, the goal is to provide ventilation at a steady, sustainable rate. For adults, give one breath every 5 to 6 seconds, about 10–12 breaths per minute, with each breath lasting around one second and causing visible chest rise. This pace maintains oxygenation without causing hyperventilation, which can reduce venous return and compromise circulation. For contrast, in children the rate is a bit faster, about one breath every 3–5 seconds.