When giving breaths to infants, what is the recommended rate?

The recommended rate for giving breaths to infants is 12-20 breaths per minute. This range is designed to ensure that infants receive adequate ventilation without risking complications such as hyperventilation, which can occur if breaths are delivered too quickly or too forcefully. The 12-20 breaths per minute range aligns with the physiological needs of an infant, taking into account their smaller lung capacity and different breathing dynamics compared to older children and adults.

Maintaining this rate helps to optimize oxygenation while reducing the risk of barotrauma, which is more likely in infants due to their delicate lung tissue. Proper technique and timing are also crucial, as delivering breaths too rapidly can inadvertently lead to increased intrathoracic pressure and potential compromise of the infant's respiratory effort. This is an essential aspect of pediatric resuscitation protocols that helps healthcare providers deliver care effectively and safely.