Definition of Rescue Breathing

Rescue Breathing

Rescue breathing is the technique of delivering breaths into a non-breathing or inadequately breathing person to supply their lungs — and bloodstream — with oxygen. It is a key component of CPR and is used whenever a person has a pulse but is not breathing effectively, or in combination with chest compressions during cardiac arrest.

Breaths can be given mouth-to-mouth, mouth-to-mask, or with a bag-valve-mask (BVM). Each breath should last about one second and produce visible chest rise, while avoiding excessive volume or speed, which can force air into the stomach. In adult CPR, the standard ratio is 30 compressions to 2 breaths until an advanced airway is placed. Proper technique supports adequate oxygenation.

Rescue breathing is taught in detail across CPR Certification Labs' hands-on, AHA-aligned CPR, BLS, ACLS, and PALS courses.

Medical Definition & Meaning

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