What can occur if breaths are given too rapidly or with excessive force?

When breaths are given too rapidly or with excessive force during resuscitation efforts, the primary risk is gastric inflation. This occurs because high volumes of air can enter the stomach rather than the lungs, especially if the airway is not adequately protected or if proper techniques are not followed. Gastric inflation can lead to complications such as increased intra-abdominal pressure, which may impair ventilation further by preventing the diaphragm from moving effectively.

In contrast, pulmonary edema involves fluid accumulation in the lungs and can arise from various underlying conditions, but it’s not directly caused by rapid or forced ventilations during resuscitation. Oxygen toxicity occurs primarily with prolonged exposure to 100% oxygen at high pressure, which is not directly related to the rate or force of breath delivery during CPR. Barotrauma refers to injury resulting from pressure changes, such as in scuba diving, and while it could theoretically happen with excessive force, it is not the primary risk associated with rapid or forceful ventilation in the context of resuscitation.

Thus, the focus on the risk of gastric inflation underscores the importance of proper technique in providing breaths during CPR to ensure the effectiveness of ventilation while mitigating potential complications.