What volume should be administered when delivering ventilations in cardiac arrest?

In the context of delivering ventilations during cardiac arrest, the appropriate volume of air to administer is between 400 to 700 mL per breath. This volume is designed to ensure adequate oxygenation and ventilation without causing over-inflation of the lungs. Delivering this volume helps to create sufficient tidal volume, which enhances the effectiveness of each breath in moving oxygen into the lungs and facilitating the exchange of carbon dioxide.

This range is based on the average capacity of adult lungs and the physiological needs during CPR. Ventilating with too little air might not adequately oxygenate the patient, while providing too much air can lead to complications such as gastric inflation or barotrauma, which can further compromise the patient's condition. Thus, the specified volume ensures that the rescuer can effectively provide adequate rescue breaths while following the established guidelines for CPR in adults.