In pediatric two-rescuer CPR, what is the correct compression-to-ventilation ratio, and how does it differ from adults?

• A. For children, two rescuers use 15:2; adults use 30:2.
• B. For children, two rescuers use 30:2; adults use 15:2.
• C. For children, 5:1; adults 15:2.
• D. For children, 100:1; adults 30:2.

Answer: (A)

In pediatric two-rescuer CPR, the emphasis is on delivering more ventilations relative to compressions because pediatric arrests are often due to respiratory failure, so boosting oxygen delivery is crucial while still maintaining effective chest compressions. The standard approach is a 15:2 compression-to-ventilation ratio, with one rescuer performing chest compressions and the other delivering breaths, cycling through 15 compressions then 2 breaths.

This differs from adults, where two-rescuer CPR uses a 30:2 ratio. In adults, cardiac causes of arrest are more common and the focus is on maximizing perfusion with fewer interruptions for breaths. The other options propose ratios like 30:2 for children, or extreme values such as 5:1 or 100:1, which are not the recommended standards.