How can you confirm effective ventilation during CPR?

Effective ventilation during CPR can be confirmed primarily by observing the rise of the chest. When performing rescue breaths, it is essential to ensure that air is entering the lungs properly. The visible rise and fall of the chest is a direct indication that the ventilation is successful, allowing oxygen to flow into the lungs and carbon dioxide to be expelled. This physical sign is critical in assessing whether the breaths provided are effective and that the patient's airways are open without any obstruction.

Other methods, while relevant in different contexts, do not directly confirm ventilation. Checking for pulse return is an indication of effective circulation, not ventilation. Observing for cyanosis indicates inadequate oxygenation, which may suggest ventilation issues but does not confirm it. Finally, heart sounds are more related to cardiac function rather than indicating whether ventilation is occurring effectively. Thus, the rise of the chest serves as the most reliable visual cue for assessing correct ventilation during CPR.