During CPR, how long should each breath be delivered and at what rate per minute?

• A. 2 seconds per breath at 6 per minute
• B. 1 second per breath at 8-10 per minute
• C. 2 seconds per breath at 12-14 per minute
• D. 0.5 seconds per breath at 30 per minute

Answer: (B)

When giving breaths during CPR, each rescue breath should be delivered for about one second to produce visible chest rise without overinflating the lungs. The rate should be roughly eight to ten breaths per minute, which is about one breath every six to seven seconds. This pace provides enough ventilation while minimizing interruptions and preventing hyperventilation.

Ventilating too slowly or with too long breaths can reduce oxygen delivery and allow the chest to become overinflated, which raises intrathoracic pressure and can impair venous return and the effectiveness of chest compressions. Ventilating too quickly or with very short breaths can also lead to inadequate tidal volume and poor oxygenation. The one-second breaths at eight to ten per minute strikes the balance needed during CPR.