What is the appropriate ventilation rate for an infant in respiratory arrest?

For an infant in respiratory arrest, the recommended ventilation rate is one ventilation every 2 to 3 seconds. This rate ensures that adequate oxygen is being delivered while minimizing the risk of over-inflation of the lungs. Because an infant's lungs are smaller and more delicate than those of older children and adults, it is crucial to provide gentle breaths at an appropriate pace. The 2 to 3 seconds interval allows for sufficient time for the oxygen to be absorbed while maintaining a safe and effective approach to rescue breathing.

You want to ensure that you give enough time between ventilations to prevent complications such as barotrauma, which can occur if breaths are administered too quickly or forcefully. This ventilation rate is consistent with guidelines aimed at providing effective care for infants in respiratory distress or arrest.