Which of the following describes the role of the second rescuer during a 2-rescuer CPR scenario, while the first rescuer is providing chest compressions?

A) Administering rescue breaths
B) Checking for a pulse
C) Preparing the automated external defibrillator (AED)
D) Providing emotional support to the victim's family
E) Monitoring the victim's responsiveness

The second rescuer in a 2-rescuer CPR scenario is responsible for providing rescue breaths while the first rescuer performs chest compressions. This partnership is critical to ensure the victim receives comprehensive life support, including circulation and oxygenation.

Explanation:

The role of the second rescuer during a 2-rescuer CPR scenario, while the first rescuer is providing chest compressions, is A) Administering rescue breaths. This coordination ensures that the victim receives both chest compressions to circulate blood and rescue breaths to provide necessary oxygen. The first responder compresses the chest at a rate of at least 100 compressions per minute, often to the beat of the song "Staying Alive", while the second responder waits for the signal to provide the breaths, maintaining the ratio as recommended by the current CPR guidelines. In a professional setting, the sequence may also involve using an Automated External Defibrillator (AED), which can diagnose heart rhythm and deliver a shock if necessary. However, compression-only CPR is recommended for bystanders who are untrained in rescue breaths.