During two-rescuer CPR for a child, what is the correct compression-to-ventilation ratio?

• A. 5:1
• B. 15:2
• C. 30:2
• D. 30:4

Answer: (B)

In two-rescuer pediatric CPR, the aim is to keep high-quality chest compressions while ensuring adequate oxygen delivery. With one rescuer focused on compressions and the other on ventilations, you can execute cycles efficiently, so the recommended pattern is 15 compressions followed by 2 breaths. This shorter compression cycle compared with adult-style schemes helps maintain better perfusion while the lungs are being oxygenated, which is particularly important in children where hypoxia is a common trigger for arrest. The 15:2 ratio reflects this balance between keeping blood flowing and providing timely breaths; the 30:2 pattern is more suited to single-rescuer scenarios where there’s less opportunity to coordinate breaths during ongoing compressions.