How long should each rescue breath last during pediatric CPR?

How long should each rescue breath last during pediatric CPR?

• A. 0.5 seconds
• B. 2 seconds
• C. 3 seconds
• D. 1 second

Answer: (D)

Each rescue breath in pediatric CPR should last about one second, just long enough to see the chest clearly rise. This length ensures the lungs get adequate air without overdoing it. If breaths are too short, ventilation is ineffective; if breaths are too long, air can go into the stomach, raise intrathoracic pressure, and interrupt chest compressions. In children, the goal is about 12–20 breaths per minute, which translates to roughly one breath every 3–5 seconds, so a one-second breath fits the rhythm while keeping CPR continuous and effective.

Each rescue breath in pediatric CPR should last about one second, just long enough to see the chest clearly rise. This length ensures the lungs get adequate air without overdoing it. If breaths are too short, ventilation is ineffective; if breaths are too long, air can go into the stomach, raise intrathoracic pressure, and interrupt chest compressions. In children, the goal is about 12–20 breaths per minute, which translates to roughly one breath every 3–5 seconds, so a one-second breath fits the rhythm while keeping CPR continuous and effective.