An unresponsive apneic patient with a weak pulse requires what ventilation rate?

For an unresponsive apneic patient with a weak pulse, the appropriate ventilation rate is one breath over 1 second every 6 seconds. This translates to a ventilation rate of 10 breaths per minute, which is crucial for providing sufficient oxygen to the patient without causing excessive ventilation.

This method aligns with the guidelines for providing rescue breaths to patients who are not breathing but still have some circulation. Ventilating at this rate allows time for adequate chest rise and helps prevent complications such as hyperventilation or inadequate ventilation, which can lead to further harm. Through this controlled approach, you ensure that the patient receives the necessary oxygenation while minimizing risks associated with overly aggressive ventilation techniques.

Other choices either suggest excessively high breathing frequencies or inappropriate approaches for the context of an unresponsive, apneic patient, which could lead to inadequate gas exchange or increased intrathoracic pressure, further compromising the patient’s condition.