Basic Life Support (BLS) Practice Exam

How often should rescue breaths be given in infants and children when a pulse is felt?

1. 1 breath every 2 to 3 seconds

2. 1 breath every 5 seconds

3. 1 breath every 10 seconds

4. 1 breath every minute

The correct answer is: 1 breath every 2 to 3 seconds

When providing rescue breaths to infants and children who have a pulse but are not breathing adequately, it is crucial to administer breaths at a rate of 1 breath every 2 to 3 seconds. This frequency is important because it allows for effective oxygenation while minimizing the risk of overinflation of the lungs. The rationale behind this recommendation is based on the physiological needs of infants and children, who have a higher metabolic rate and oxygen requirement compared to adults. Delivering breaths too slowly can lead to inadequate ventilation, resulting in insufficient oxygen levels in the bloodstream. Conversely, delivering them too quickly can cause air to enter the stomach rather than the lungs, which can lead to complications such as aspiration and decreased efficiency of breaths. Maintaining a breathing frequency within this specific range ensures that the child receives enough oxygen while allowing for a normal physiological response to the breaths being delivered. Thus, recognizing the correct timing for rescue breaths is essential for effective airway management in these vulnerable populations.