During rescue breathing, how many breaths should be delivered to an adult?

During rescue breathing for an adult, the recommended practice is to deliver one breath every 5 seconds. This timing allows for adequate ventilation and ensures that the individual receives enough oxygen without causing overinflation of the lungs. By providing a breath every 5 seconds, you create a rhythm that simulates natural breathing, facilitating more effective oxygen exchange.

In the scenario where breaths are administered too quickly, such as delivering two breaths in quick succession or returning to breaths every 10 seconds, there is a risk of air trapping and potential barotrauma, which can harm the lungs. Likewise, providing breaths every 30 seconds is not sufficient for maintaining adequate oxygenation, especially in a critical situation where timely intervention is crucial. Therefore, the strategy of one breath every 5 seconds optimizes the rescue process while prioritizing patient safety.