Which ventilation practice should be avoided during CPR?

Which ventilation practice should be avoided during CPR?

• A. Adequate ventilation
• B. Slow ventilation
• C. Normal ventilation rate
• D. Excessive ventilation

Answer: (D)

During CPR, keeping blood flowing with chest compressions is the priority, while ventilation should support oxygenation without hindering that flow. Excessive ventilation—breathing too fast or with too large volumes—raises intrathoracic pressure. This makes it harder for blood to return to the heart between compressions and lowers coronary and cerebral perfusion, which can reduce the chances of ROSC. It also can cause gastric inflation and aspiration risk. Gentle, adequate breaths that produce visible chest rise are appropriate; avoid any pattern that amounts to over-ventilation.

During CPR, keeping blood flowing with chest compressions is the priority, while ventilation should support oxygenation without hindering that flow. Excessive ventilation—breathing too fast or with too large volumes—raises intrathoracic pressure. This makes it harder for blood to return to the heart between compressions and lowers coronary and cerebral perfusion, which can reduce the chances of ROSC. It also can cause gastric inflation and aspiration risk. Gentle, adequate breaths that produce visible chest rise are appropriate; avoid any pattern that amounts to over-ventilation.