Final answer:
During a 2-rescuer CPR, the second rescuer opens the airway and provides artificial respiration, or rescue breaths, to the patient.
Step-by-step explanation:
During a 2-rescuer CPR, the second rescuer has important responsibilities while the first rescuer gives chest compressions. The second rescuer's role is to open the airway and provide artificial respiration, also known as rescue breaths, to the patient. By giving rescue breaths, the second rescuer helps deliver oxygen to the patient's lungs while the chest compressions are being performed by the first rescuer.
The second rescuer can provide rescue breaths by following these steps:
- Position themselves at the head of the patient.
- Tilt the patient's head back and lift the chin to open the airway.
- Pinch the patient's nose closed with one hand.
- Take a normal breath and place their mouth completely over the patient's mouth.
- Blow firmly into the patient's mouth for about 1 second, watching for the chest to rise.
- Allow the patient's chest to fully deflate before giving the next rescue breath.
- Repeat the rescue breaths at a rate of 10-12 breaths per minute (about 1 breath every 5-6 seconds).