How long should a single rescue breath last during CPR?

How long should a single rescue breath last during CPR?

• A. 0.5 seconds
• B. 2 seconds
• C. 3 seconds
• D. 1 second

Answer: (D)

One-second rescue breaths are used in CPR to ventilate effectively without interrupting chest compressions for too long. Delivering each breath for about one second helps inflate the lungs enough to promote oxygen exchange while keeping the overall cycle pace centered around 100 to 120 compressions per minute. If a breath is given for only half a second, you may not ventilate adequately. If it lasts two seconds or more, you pause compressions too long, which reduces blood flow to the heart and brain and can cause gastric inflation. Watch for visible chest rise with each breath to confirm proper ventilation, and after about 30 compressions in an adult, provide 2 breaths, continuing cycles.

One-second rescue breaths are used in CPR to ventilate effectively without interrupting chest compressions for too long. Delivering each breath for about one second helps inflate the lungs enough to promote oxygen exchange while keeping the overall cycle pace centered around 100 to 120 compressions per minute. If a breath is given for only half a second, you may not ventilate adequately. If it lasts two seconds or more, you pause compressions too long, which reduces blood flow to the heart and brain and can cause gastric inflation. Watch for visible chest rise with each breath to confirm proper ventilation, and after about 30 compressions in an adult, provide 2 breaths, continuing cycles.