What is the recommended ventilation rate for adults in cardiac arrest during CPR?

The recommended ventilation rate for adults in cardiac arrest during CPR is 10-12 breaths per minute. This rate strikes a balance between providing adequate oxygenation and preventing hyperventilation, which can lead to complications such as decreased venous return and increased intrathoracic pressure.

When performing CPR, the focus is primarily on high-quality chest compressions combined with effective ventilation. The goal of 10-12 breaths per minute allows for sufficient time between breaths to ensure that chest compressions are uninterrupted and effective.

This rate aligns with current guidelines that emphasize the importance of minimizing interruptions to compressions while still providing necessary breaths to maintain oxygenation. Maintaining this ventilation rate helps optimize the chances of return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) and improves overall outcomes for patients in cardiac arrest.