Giving breaths during CPR can help maintain a supply of
oxygen in the lungs. Oxygen, in turn, is circulated to the brain
and to the vital organs by chest compressions.
The preferred method is to use a mask; however, mouth-to-mouth
can also be performed. A correctly executed breath will
cause the person’s chest to rise.

To open the person’s airway, do the following:

1. Put one hand on their forehead (Figure 15a).
2. Place your fingers on the bony part of their chin (Figure 15b).
3. Gently tilt the head back while lifting the chin (Figure 15c).

Now you are ready to give breaths.
Do the following:

1. Hold the person’s airway open as described above and pinch their nose shut (Figure 15d).
2. Take a deep breath and seal your mouth around the person’s mouth (Figure 15e).
3. Blow into their mouth for one second and watch their chest rise.
4. Repeat with a second breath.

If the chest does not rise, reposition the airway. Let their head go back to a normal position and repeat the head-tilt/chin-lift maneuver. Then give another breath and look for the chest to rise.

Perform the chest compressions without interruption. It should take no longer than 10 seconds to give two breaths. If the person’s chest fails to rise within 10 seconds, begin chest compressions again.

CPR, including giving breaths, is generally safe. If a mask is available, it should be used. The mask fits over the victim’s
mouth and nose. Most masks
have a pointed end, which should go over
the bridge of the person’s nose.

1. Place the mask over the person’s mouth and nose (Figure 16a).
2. Open their airway by performing the head-tilt/chin-lift maneuver.
3. Ensure a good seal between the mask and the person’s face.
4. Give a breath for over one second and watch the chest rise. (Figure 16b)
5. Deliver the second breath.