What is the proper rate for administering rescue breaths to a child?

The correct rate for administering rescue breaths to a child is one breath every 2 to 3 seconds. This ensures that the child receives adequate ventilation without the risk of hyperventilation. When providing rescue breaths, it is essential to allow sufficient time between breaths for the child’s lungs to expand and to avoid overwhelming the respiratory system.

In practice, administering breaths at this rate supports the restoration of oxygen levels in the bloodstream while minimizing the risk of complications. It focuses on delivering the right balance of air without causing too much pressure in the lungs, which can lead to airway injury or gastric inflation.

The other options suggest either too long or too short a time between breaths, which may not provide effective ventilation needed for a child experiencing respiratory distress or failure. Thus, understanding the appropriate rate of rescue breaths is crucial for effective emergency response.