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

For a child or infant in respiratory arrest, the appropriate rate of ventilation delivery is one ventilation every 2 to 3 seconds. This rate ensures that the child or infant receives sufficient breaths to maintain adequate oxygenation and ventilation without causing hyperventilation or increasing intrathoracic pressure, which could impede blood circulation.

Ventilating too quickly can lead to excessive air being introduced to the lungs, which can result in complications such as gastric inflation and reduced effectiveness of the breaths provided. Thus, maintaining the proper timing for ventilations is crucial for patient safety and effective resuscitation efforts. Additionally, this rate aligns with the guidelines established in the BLS protocols to effectively deliver oxygen to the lungs of a pediatric patient in respiratory distress.