How Rescue Breathing Works: Oxygen Delivery and Airway Management in CPR
Mouth-to-mouth (rescue breathing) provides:
- Oxygen delivery: Exhaled air contains ~16–17% O₂ (vs. 21% ambient)—sufficient to oxygenate blood.
- Positive airway pressure: Inflates alveoli, overcomes obstruction, enables gas exchange.
- Clearance: Airflow may dislodge secretions/foreign bodies.
- Respiratory center stimulation: Mechanical inflation can trigger spontaneous breathing.
- Lung volume maintenance: Prevents atelectasis.
- Circulatory support: Oxygenated blood perfuses heart/brain during compressions.
Indication: Only for apneic or severely compromised breathing. Untrained rescuers: hands-only CPR (compressions) is recommended. Formal CPR certification ensures correct technique.
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