For infants, what is the compression-to-ventilation ratio during single-provider CPR?

In the context of Basic Life Support (BLS) for infants, the recommended compression-to-ventilation ratio during single-provider CPR is 30:2. This means that for every 30 chest compressions delivered, the provider should give 2 rescue breaths.

This ratio is important because it optimally balances the need for effective chest compressions, which maintain circulation to vital organs, with the need for artificial ventilation to provide oxygen to the lungs. In infants, the emphasis on the quality of compressions is crucial, as their fragile anatomy requires gentle but effective measures to ensure blood flow. The 30:2 ratio helps to ensure that the provider spends sufficient time delivering compressions, which is critical in maintaining circulation, while still providing essential breaths to support respiratory function.

Understanding this ratio is vital for any healthcare provider or layperson performing CPR on infants to maximize the chances of a successful outcome in a cardiac arrest situation.