NREMT Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Cognitive ExamAirway, Respiration & VentilationEasy
A 5-year-old child is found unresponsive and apneic. After opening the airway and confirming pulselessness, you begin CPR. What is the correct ventilation rate when performing two-rescuer CPR on this child?
- A1 breath every 3-5 seconds
- B1 breath every 5-6 seconds
- C1 breath every 2-3 seconds
- D1 breath every 6-8 seconds
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. 1 breath every 2-3 seconds
For pediatric patients (children and infants) during two-rescuer CPR, the recommended ventilation rate is 1 breath every 2-3 seconds, which equates to 20-30 breaths per minute. This rate helps to adequately oxygenate the child while coordinating with compressions.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. This rate is too slow for pediatric two-rescuer CPR.
- B. This rate is appropriate for adult two-rescuer CPR, not pediatric.
- D. This rate is too slow for pediatric two-rescuer CPR and is more aligned with adult advanced airway ventilation rates.
Pediatric Two-Rescuer CPR Ventilation Rate
When two rescuers are performing CPR on a child or infant, ventilations should be delivered at a rate of 1 breath every 2-3 seconds.
- Applies to children and infants.
- Rate is 20-30 breaths per minute.
- Coordinated with chest compressions.
Memory trick: Kids need fast air, every 2-3, rescuers share.