What is the proper method for performing rescue breaths?

The proper method for performing rescue breaths is characterized by a technique that ensures adequate ventilation while minimizing the risk of air escaping. The correct answer involves pinching the nose to prevent air from escaping, sealing the mouth to create a tight fit for proper airflow, and delivering a breath that lasts about one second. This duration is crucial; it allows for sufficient inflation of the lungs without causing excessive pressure, which could lead to complications such as gastric inflation.

Additionally, a single breath during rescue breaths should be observed to ensure that the chest rises visibly, indicating that air is going into the lungs appropriately. Maintaining a focus on the timing and technique of the breaths is essential for effective rescue breathing in emergency situations, thereby increasing the likelihood of successful resuscitation.

The other choices present methods that either lack proper technique or could result in ineffective ventilation or injury. For instance, sealing the mouth as described without the appropriate control can lead to inadequate breaths or failed attempts, while improperly covering areas such as the eyes or neck may not contribute to effective breathing support. These factors highlight the importance of accurate techniques in the context of providing lifesaving rescue breaths.