What is the ratio of Artificial Breathing during CPR?

Appeared in: MP CHO-2020

Explanation

The standard compression-to-ventilation ratio for adults, regardless of the number of rescuers, is 30 compressions to 2 breaths.
This 30:2 ratio is also the standard for a single rescuer performing CPR on a child or infant.
This universal ratio for single rescuers simplifies training and reduces hesitation during an emergency.
The primary goal is to maintain blood flow to vital organs through high-quality chest compressions, with rescue breaths providing necessary oxygenation.

Option A: The 15:2 ratio is not the standard for general CPR. It is a specific ratio used in a different context.
Option B: The ratio 60:6, which simplifies to 10:1, is not a standard or recommended compression-to-ventilation ratio in any CPR guideline.
Option C: The ratio 12:3, which simplifies to 4:1, is not a valid compression-to-ventilation ratio in CPR.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain CPR Compression-Ventilation Ratio as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Performing high-quality CPR with the correct compression-to-ventilation ratio is a critical life-saving skill for nurses. Delays or incorrect ratios can significantly decrease the chances of survival.
Nurses must be able to quickly adapt the CPR ratio based on the patient's age (adult, child, or infant) and the number of available rescuers to ensure adherence to evidence-based guidelines.
What if the patient has an advanced airway (e.g., an endotracheal tube)? In this case, the protocol changes. Chest compressions become continuous (100-120/min) without pauses, and ventilations are given at a rate of 1 breath every 6 seconds.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the core of the question, which is asking for a standard ratio in CPR.
Recognize that CPR guidelines have specific, memorized ratios. The question is a test of factual recall.
Unless specified otherwise (e.g., 'for a child with two rescuers'), assume the question is asking for the most common, standard ratio, which is for adult CPR.
Recall the AHA (American Heart Association) or other relevant guidelines. The standard ratio for an adult is 30 compressions to 2 breaths.
Evaluate the given options: 15:2 (child/infant, 2 rescuers), 60:6 (incorrect), 12:3 (incorrect), and 30:2 (correct for adults).
Select the option that matches the standard adult CPR protocol.

Concept Tested & Keywords

QtUmpzD-4sUIYnQOzo-Hh8

E6 Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics(2024) — Volume 1 p. 610-612

E6 Ghai Essential Pediatrics(pp 26-904 of 913) p. 763-765

Practise the full MP CHO-2020

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.