Board of Legal SpecializationPractice Exam

When performing CPR on a pediatric patient, how should the compression-to-ventilation ratio be altered if two providers are available?

1. 30:2

2. 15:2

3. 10:1

4. 20:2

The correct answer is: 15:2

In pediatric patients, when two rescuers are providing CPR, the recommended compression-to-ventilation ratio is 15:2. This ratio allows for a more effective approach to ensure adequate oxygenation while maintaining sufficient blood flow through compressions. The rationale behind using a 15:2 ratio with two providers stems from the understanding that children are more likely to experience respiratory issues leading to cardiac arrest rather than primary cardiac issues. Therefore, delivering more frequent breaths can help address potential hypoxia. In this context, the increased number of compressions (15) helps to maintain circulation, while the two ventilations (2) provide necessary oxygenation without significantly interrupting compressions. This approach is designed to balance the need for effective chest compressions, which are crucial for maintaining circulation, with the need for ventilations to ensure that the child receives enough oxygen. In scenarios with only one provider, a 30:2 ratio is appropriate to efficiently manage both compressions and breaths within a single rescuer's efforts.