Definition of Rescue Breathing (ACLS)

Rescue Breathing (ACLS)

Rescue breathing in the ACLS context refers to the advanced techniques used to support a patient's ventilation and oxygenation during resuscitation, going beyond basic mouth-to-mask breaths. It includes bag-valve-mask ventilation, the use of airway adjuncts, and ventilation through advanced airways such as an endotracheal tube or laryngeal mask airway.

Once an advanced airway is in place during cardiac arrest, providers deliver continuous chest compressions while giving breaths at a steady set rate rather than in 30:2 cycles. Careful attention to rate and volume is essential, since over-ventilation reduces blood return to the heart and lowers the effectiveness of compressions. Capnography is used to monitor ventilation and confirm airway placement.

CPR Certification Labs provides hands-on, American Heart Association–aligned CPR, BLS, ACLS, and PALS certification training to help providers master these life-saving skills.

Medical Definition & Meaning

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Comprehensive CPR Training for Adults, Children, and Infants

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Proper Use of AED Devices for All Age Groups

Understand how to safely and effectively operate an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) for adults, children, and infants.

Airway Obstruction Relief and Heimlich Maneuver

Learn how to perform the Heimlich maneuver and clear airway obstructions caused by choking in both adults and infants.

Team-Based Multi-Rescuer CPR Techniques

Gain experience working as part of a team when more than one rescuer is available during an emergency.

Official American Heart Association CPR E-Card

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