When performing rescue breathing for an adult, how often should breaths be delivered?

• A. Every 2-4 seconds
• B. Every 10-12 seconds
• C. Every 6-8 seconds
• D. Every 5-7 seconds

Answer: (C)

Delivering rescue breaths for an adult should occur every 6-8 seconds. This frequency allows for adequate ventilation while ensuring that the chest rises adequately with each breath. Providing breaths too quickly can lead to over-inflation of the lungs and may cause complications such as gastric distension, which can interfere with the effectiveness of rescue breathing.

The recommended rate ensures that each breath can be effectively utilized to provide oxygen to the victim's lungs without overwhelming their respiratory system. This interval reflects guidance from emergency care protocols, which prioritize both effective ventilation and the physiological limits of the human body.