What is the compression to breath ratio for children during CPR?

The compression to breath ratio for children during CPR is 15:2 when there is a single rescuer performing the resuscitation. This ratio is particularly important because it reflects the physiological differences between children and adults.

In a child, the cardiovascular system is more dependent on the quality of compressions, and therefore, a higher frequency of compressions relative to breaths is recommended. The 15 compressions followed by 2 breaths provide an effective method to circulate blood and oxygenate the child while ensuring that the rescuer can maintain a high rate of compressions, which is crucial in maintaining adequate circulation during cardiac arrest.

For scenarios where there are two rescuers, the ratio is adjusted to 30:2, which aligns more closely with the adult CPR guidelines. However, in single rescuer situations specifically for children, the use of the 15:2 ratio emphasizes the need for quick and effective circulatory support, which is essential for a child's recovery from a cardiac event.