How often should rescue breaths be delivered during CPR for an adult?

During CPR for an adult, rescue breaths should be delivered every 5 to 6 seconds. This rate ensures that the patient receives sufficient ventilation while minimizing the risk of complications such as overinflating the lungs. Each rescue breath should be delivered over one second and should make the chest rise visibly.

The timing is crucial because delivering breaths at a rate faster than every 5 to 6 seconds can lead to inadequate circulation due to the interruption of chest compressions, which are essential for maintaining blood flow during cardiac arrest. Properly timed rescue breaths contribute to effective ventilation, helping to provide oxygen to the lungs and subsequently to vital organs.