What is a potential risk of providing too many rescue breaths too quickly?

Providing too many rescue breaths too quickly can lead to excessive ventilation, which is the correct answer to this question. Excessive ventilation occurs when breaths are administered at a volume or frequency that is beyond what the patient needs. This can disrupt the normal respiratory mechanics and lead to increased pressure in the lungs.

When someone receives excessive breaths, it can cause the lungs to inflate too much, leading to barotrauma—injury caused by increased air pressure—potentially causing lung over-distension or collapsing alveoli. This can significantly hinder gas exchange, leading to inadequate oxygenation and potentially causing elevated carbon dioxide levels in the bloodstream (hypercapnia).

Moreover, excessive ventilation can result in a decrease in intrathoracic pressure, which may impede the blood flow returning to the heart, ultimately affecting cardiac output. It is important during rescue breaths to maintain a balance to ensure that the victim receives adequate oxygen without overwhelming the respiratory system.

Understanding this concept is crucial for effective rescue practices during CPR, as it emphasizes the importance of controlling the rate and volume of breaths provided to a victim.