NREMT Paramedic Cognitive ExamAirway, Respiration & VentilationMedium
A 35-year-old male is found unresponsive after a suspected opiate overdose. His respiratory rate is 4 breaths/min and shallow, and his SpO2 is 78%. He has a weak but palpable carotid pulse. After administering naloxone, which of the following is the most appropriate ventilation rate for this adult patient if his breathing remains inadequate?
- A8 breaths per minute.
- B16 breaths per minute.
- C10 breaths per minute.
- D12 breaths per minute.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. 10 breaths per minute.
For an adult patient with inadequate breathing who requires positive pressure ventilation, the recommended rate is 10-12 breaths per minute (or one breath every 5-6 seconds) to ensure adequate oxygenation and ventilation without causing hyperventilation.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. 8 breaths/min (one breath every 7.5 seconds) is generally too slow for an adult requiring ventilatory support, potentially leading to hypoventilation.
- B. 16 breaths/min (one breath every 3.75 seconds) is generally too fast for an adult, increasing the risk of gastric insufflation and reduced cardiac output due to increased intrathoracic pressure.
- D. 12 breaths/min (one breath every 5 seconds) is also within the recommended range for ventilating an adult patient with a BVM.
Adult BVM Ventilation Rate
For an adult patient with inadequate breathing requiring positive pressure ventilation, the recommended rate is 10-12 breaths per minute (one breath every 5-6 seconds).
- Adults: 10-12 breaths/min.
- One breath every 5-6 seconds.
- Avoid hyperventilation.
Memory trick: Adults need 'Ten to Twelve' breaths to 'feel alive'.