In Basic Life Support (BLS), how often should you give ventilation breaths to an adult patient who is not breathing but still has a pulse?

In Basic Life Support (BLS), when an adult patient is not breathing but has a pulse, you should provide ventilation breaths every 5 seconds. This practice is based on the need to ensure that the patient receives adequate oxygen while minimizing the risk of hyperventilation.

Breaths should be delivered in a manner that allows for adequate time between intakes for the lungs to fill and the patient to receive oxygen without causing excessive pressure, which can lead to complications such as decreased cardiac output or barotrauma. The recommendation to provide breaths every 5 seconds allows for a more controlled and effective delivery of ventilation, supporting oxygenation and maintaining a proper rhythm in the patient's care.

This interval also aligns with the guidelines established by organizations such as the American Heart Association, emphasizing the importance of timely and appropriate rescue breaths in maintaining vital functions until professional medical assistance can be provided.