If rescue breaths do not go in, what is the first step?

• A. Reposition head and attempt another breath
• B. Begin CPR cycle immediately
• C. Check for a pulse
• D. Give a second rescue breath immediately

Answer: (A)

Opening the airway and ensuring a proper seal are essential for effective rescue breaths. When a breath does not go in, the first step is to reposition the head (tilt the head back and lift the chin) to realign the airway and improve the mask seal, then attempt another rescue breath. This addresses common issues like an airway being closed off or air leaking out around a poor seal, which are the typical reasons breaths won’t enter the lungs.

If the second breath still does not go in after repositioning, you should proceed with chest compressions and resume CPR according to the guidelines. Checking for a pulse isn’t the immediate next step in this scenario, and giving a second breath without first rechecking the airway seal isn’t as effective as fixing the airway and retrying.