A patient is not breathing but has a pulse. What is the recommended bag-valve-mask ventilation rate?

• A. 8–10 breaths per minute
• B. 10–12 breaths per minute
• C. 12–15 breaths per minute
• D. 6–8 breaths per minute

Answer: (B)

When a patient has a pulse but is not breathing, you provide rescue ventilations to maintain oxygen delivery while the heart continues to pump. The goal is about one breath every 5 to 6 seconds, which is roughly 10 to 12 breaths per minute, to supply sufficient oxygen without overdistending the lungs. Use a good seal on the bag-valve-mask and deliver a breath just long enough to produce visible chest rise, then pause briefly before the next squeeze. Ventilating too slowly won’t meet metabolic needs, while ventilating too quickly can cause hyperventilation, gastric inflation, and reduced venous return due to increased intrathoracic pressure. So, the recommended rate is 10–12 breaths per minute.