What is the correct rate of ventilation delivery for a child or infant in respiratory arrest?

The correct rate of ventilation delivery for a child or infant in respiratory arrest is one ventilation every 2 to 3 seconds. This rate is essential because it ensures that adequate oxygen is provided to the child’s lungs to support their vital functions while minimizing the risk of complications that may arise from improper ventilation.

During a respiratory arrest, the primary goal is to restore adequate breathing. Delivering one ventilation every 2 to 3 seconds allows enough time for the air to enter the lungs, while also ensuring that the frequency does not cause over-inflation of the lungs or excessive pressure that could lead to barotrauma. This method strikes a balance between providing sufficient oxygen and maintaining airway integrity.

In contrast, a rate of one ventilation every second may be too fast for a child or infant, potentially resulting in complications. Ventilating too quickly can increase the risk of air entering the stomach instead of the lungs, which can lead to gastric distension and further complicate the situation. Similarly, a rate of one ventilation every 5 seconds or one ventilation every minute does not provide enough oxygenation to effectively support the child’s needs during respiratory arrest. It is crucial to provide timely and adequate ventilation to improve the chances of a successful resuscitation.