What is the correct ventilation rate for a patient needing rescue breathing?

The correct ventilation rate for a patient needing rescue breathing is 1 breath every 6 seconds. This rate is designed to ensure that the patient receives adequate oxygenation while minimizing the risk of complications such as hyperventilation or gastric inflation. When providing rescue breaths, the goal is to deliver breaths that are sufficient to make the chest rise visibly, indicating that air is reaching the lungs effectively.

In a critical situation where a person is not breathing but has a pulse, the recommended rate allows for a balance between oxygen delivery and prevention of excessive air pressure that could lead to further complications. Realizing that adults require different rates compared to infants and children is essential. For adults and children, 1 breath every 6 seconds corresponds to around 10 breaths per minute, which is an appropriate rate to maintain oxygenation without causing harm.

Understanding this rate is crucial for anyone performing rescue breaths, as it helps ensure the best outcomes for patients receiving basic life support.