When performing child rescue breathing, how often should breaths be applied?

In child rescue breathing, it is critical to deliver breaths at a rate that ensures the child receives adequate ventilation without risking over-inflation of the lungs. The correct practice is to provide one breath every 3 seconds. This timing allows for sufficient exchange of air, ensuring that the child receives the oxygen needed while also maintaining a manageable breathing rhythm.

Applying breaths too quickly can lead to complications such as air entering the stomach instead of the lungs, which can cause vomiting and further complications. The adopted standard of one breath every 3 seconds balances the need for urgent care while ensuring safety and effectiveness in ventilation. This rhythm is also in line with established guidelines for pediatric airway management, ensuring that rescuers can effectively support a child's needs during a critical moment without causing harm.