How should ventilation be administered for infants and children?

Ventilation for infants and children should be administered at a rate of 1 breath every 2 to 3 seconds. This cadence is critical because infants and children have a higher metabolic rate compared to adults, which means they require oxygen more quickly. Delivering breaths too slowly could lead to inadequate oxygenation, whereas too quickly could increase the risk of overinflation of the lungs or barotrauma.

The recommended rate aligns with the physiological needs of these age groups, ensuring that the breaths are provided effectively without causing any harm. It is essential to administer breaths gently, maintaining an appropriate volume to optimize oxygen delivery while avoiding excessive pressure. Adjusting the ventilation rate according to the specific needs of the child or infant is important for effective management during a cardiac arrest or respiratory emergency. The other options do not align with the critical need for a quicker ventilation rate in younger patients, which could result in suboptimal support during resuscitation.