In single rescuer CPR, after delivering 30 compressions, how many breaths should be given?

In single rescuer CPR, after delivering 30 compressions, how many breaths should be given?

• A. 2 breaths.
• B. 1 breath.
• C. 3 breaths.
• D. 4 breaths.

Answer: (A)

In single rescuer CPR you follow a 30:2 rhythm: after delivering thirty chest compressions, give two breaths. The compressions keep blood flowing to vital organs, while the two breaths provide ventilation to oxygenate the blood. If you gave more breaths, you'd interrupt compressions too long and lower perfusion; too few breaths would under-ventilate the patient. Each breath should be enough to make the chest rise, typically lasting about one second, then you resume compressions immediately and continue the cycle.

In single rescuer CPR you follow a 30:2 rhythm: after delivering thirty chest compressions, give two breaths. The compressions keep blood flowing to vital organs, while the two breaths provide ventilation to oxygenate the blood. If you gave more breaths, you'd interrupt compressions too long and lower perfusion; too few breaths would under-ventilate the patient. Each breath should be enough to make the chest rise, typically lasting about one second, then you resume compressions immediately and continue the cycle.