During rescue breathing for an adult, what is the appropriate volume of air to deliver?

The appropriate volume of air to deliver during rescue breathing for an adult is a moderate-sized breath. This is crucial because giving a breath that is too small may not provide sufficient oxygen to the lungs, while delivering a breath that is too large can cause gastric inflation and increase the risk of aspiration.

In adult patients, the goal is to deliver about 500 to 600 milliliters of air with each breath, which is in the range of a moderate-sized breath. This amount ensures that oxygen reaches the alveoli efficiently without causing overdistension of the lungs.

Rescue breathing should be performed at a rate of about 10 to 12 breaths per minute, allowing adequate time for the exhalation of each breath. Proper technique and volume are essential for effective resuscitation and to improve the patient's chances of survival during a cardiac arrest scenario.