During CPR with a bag-mask device on an adult, what rate should rescue breaths be delivered?

During CPR with a bag-mask device on an adult, what rate should rescue breaths be delivered?

• A. 8-10 breaths per minute
• B. 12-14 breaths per minute
• C. 10-12 breaths per minute
• D. 6-8 breaths per minute

Answer: (B)

During adult CPR using a bag-mask device, deliver rescue breaths at about one breath every 5 to 6 seconds, which equals roughly 10 to 12 breaths per minute. This pace provides enough ventilation to oxygenate without causing hyperventilation, which can raise intrathoracic pressure and reduce venous return to the heart or cause gastric inflation. Bag-mask ventilation is less efficient than a secured airway, so keeping a steady, moderate rate helps maintain effective chest compressions and gas exchange. Breathing faster than this can waste breaths and disrupt compressions; slower than this may not provide enough ventilation between cycles. If an advanced airway is placed, the approach shifts toward continuous compressions with breaths about every 6 seconds (roughly 10 per minute).

During adult CPR using a bag-mask device, deliver rescue breaths at about one breath every 5 to 6 seconds, which equals roughly 10 to 12 breaths per minute. This pace provides enough ventilation to oxygenate without causing hyperventilation, which can raise intrathoracic pressure and reduce venous return to the heart or cause gastric inflation. Bag-mask ventilation is less efficient than a secured airway, so keeping a steady, moderate rate helps maintain effective chest compressions and gas exchange.

Breathing faster than this can waste breaths and disrupt compressions; slower than this may not provide enough ventilation between cycles. If an advanced airway is placed, the approach shifts toward continuous compressions with breaths about every 6 seconds (roughly 10 per minute).