After inserting an advanced airway device in a 6-month-old infant in cardiac arrest, what ventilation rate should be used?

In infants, especially those around 6 months old, the appropriate ventilation rate during cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) with an advanced airway device is crucial for effective oxygenation without causing harm. The recommended rate is typically around 10 breaths per minute for this age group. This rate ensures that the child receives adequate ventilation, allowing for a proper exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide while minimizing the risk of hyperventilation, which can lead to increased intrathoracic pressure and compromised venous return to the heart.

Ventilation at this rate should also be delivered in conjunction with chest compressions, typically at a 30:2 ratio if the airway is not secured, or continuously if an advanced airway is in place. The focus is on maintaining sufficient perfusion while ensuring adequate ventilation to support the infant's needs, reflecting the physiological characteristics of a 6-month-old's respiratory system.