If infants and children do not exhibit effective breathing and a pulse less than 60/min, what should be initiated immediately?

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In the scenario where infants and children are showing ineffective breathing and a pulse rate of less than 60 beats per minute, immediate intervention is crucial for survival. The correct approach is to administer both chest compressions and ventilations, as it aligns with the guidelines for pediatric cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).

When an infant or child has a pulse of less than 60/min along with ineffective breathing, it indicates severe bradycardia and potentially a state of cardiac arrest. The primary goal in this situation is to restore adequate blood flow and oxygenation to vital organs, especially the brain and heart. Administering chest compressions helps to circulate the blood, while ventilations provide the necessary oxygen to the lungs, ensuring that the body receives the oxygen it critically needs.

Other options, while they may seem relevant, do not address the dual need for both compressions and ventilations urgently. For example, focusing solely on ventilation or oxygen without the immediate application of compressions would not be sufficient to respond to the life-threatening state of the patient. Therefore, the combination of compressions and ventilations is essential in this critical situation to increase the chances of survival and recovery.

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