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Question 1

A child is found unconscious on the paediatric ward, the head is tilted and they are not breathing. After calling for help what should you do first?

Answer 1

5 Rescue breaths BEFORE chest compressions.

Question 2

Why do you do 5 rescue breaths before commencing chest compressions in a child who is not breathing?

Answer 2

Children are more likely to stop breathing due to respiratory failure, rather than cardiac failure. It is important to give the rescue breaths before chest compression so that there is oxygenated air in the lungs to diffuse for chest compressions.