CPR for Adults: How to Perform Rescue Breaths (Step-by-Step)

Rescue breaths provide oxygen during cardiac arrest when combined with chest compressions. Follow these steps for an adult:

1. Open Airway: Tilt head back, lift chin (head-tilt/chin-lift).
2. Pinch Nose: Use thumb and index finger to close nostrils.
3. Seal & Blow: Take a normal breath, place your mouth fully over the person's mouth, create an airtight seal. Blow steadily for ~1 second—watch for chest rise.
4. Release: Remove your mouth; allow passive exhalation (chest falls).
5. Second Breath: Repeat steps 2–4 for a second breath.

Key Points:

• Each breath: 1 second, visible chest rise.
• If chest doesn't rise, reposition head and retry.
• Deliver 2 breaths after every 30 compressions (30:2 ratio).
• If untrained or unwilling, perform hands-only CPR (continuous compressions) until help arrives.

Note: Current guidelines prioritize high-quality chest compressions. Rescue breaths are recommended for trained rescuers; for drowning, drug overdose, or pediatric arrest, breaths are especially critical.