How many breaths per minute should an adult patient receive during CPR?

During CPR for adults, the recommended rate for rescue breaths is 10 to 12 breaths per minute. This guideline is based on the need to provide sufficient oxygenation while avoiding hyperventilation. The combination of compressions and breaths is critical in maintaining the patient's circulation and oxygen supply during cardiac arrest.

Delivering breaths at this rate ensures that the lungs are filled adequately without causing increased intrathoracic pressure, which could hinder the return of blood to the heart. It's important to remember that each breath should be delivered over about one second, allowing for visible chest rise, which indicates that the lungs are being adequately ventilated.

Adhering to this breathing rate aligns with current guidelines and helps maximize the effectiveness of CPR until advanced medical support arrives or until the patient shows signs of recovery.