A patient who is not breathing but has a pulse should be ventilated with a bag-valve-mask at what rate?

A patient who is not breathing but has a pulse should be ventilated with a bag-valve-mask at what rate?

• A. 8–10 breaths per minute
• B. 10–12 breaths per minute
• C. 12–15 breaths per minute
• D. 6–8 breaths per minute

Answer: (B)

Ventilate with a bag-valve-mask at about 10–12 breaths per minute. When a patient has a pulse but isn’t breathing, provide rescue breaths at roughly one every 5–6 seconds to maintain oxygenation without over-ventilating. This rate balances delivering enough air to oxygenate while avoiding excessive intrathoracic pressure and gastric inflation. Ensure a good seal and visible chest rise with each breath, and adjust based on chest movement and comfort.

Ventilate with a bag-valve-mask at about 10–12 breaths per minute. When a patient has a pulse but isn’t breathing, provide rescue breaths at roughly one every 5–6 seconds to maintain oxygenation without over-ventilating. This rate balances delivering enough air to oxygenate while avoiding excessive intrathoracic pressure and gastric inflation. Ensure a good seal and visible chest rise with each breath, and adjust based on chest movement and comfort.