What is the appropriate rate for delivering rescue breaths to a child victim with a pulse?

Delivering rescue breaths to a child victim who has a pulse but is not breathing adequately is crucial for ensuring that oxygen continues to reach the heart and brain. The recommended rate for administering rescue breaths in this scenario is 1 breath every 3 to 5 seconds. This equates to a frequency of approximately 12 to 20 breaths per minute, which aligns with the physiological needs of a child.

This rate ensures that the child receives enough oxygen while minimizing the risk of overinflation of the lungs or introducing excessive air into the stomach, which can lead to complications such as vomiting or airway obstruction. Maintaining this careful balance is especially important in pediatric care, where the lungs and airway can be more sensitive than in adults.

The other intervals presented do not align with the recommended guidelines for pediatric ventilation; breathing too slowly or too quickly can be ineffective in providing adequate respiratory support and may delay the necessary interventions that are needed in a cardiac or respiratory distress situation.