What does "effective ventilation" mean in the context of ALS?

Effective ventilation in the context of Advanced Life Support (ALS) refers to the delivery of adequate amounts of oxygen to the lungs, which is evidenced by observable chest rise during rescue breaths. When rescue breaths are administered effectively, the chest should visibly rise and fall, indicating that air is entering the lungs. This is crucial because it ensures that the patient is receiving sufficient oxygen, which is essential for maintaining vital organ function during a cardiac arrest or respiratory failure situation.

The visible chest rise also serves as a visual confirmation that the airway is appropriately positioned and that no obstructions are hindering the passage of air. Therefore, the criterion of observable chest rise is a key indicator of successful ventilation and ensures that the airway management techniques employed are yielding the desired physiological outcomes.

In this context, focusing on effective ventilation helps guide the responder to monitor and adjust their technique to ensure that the patient receives the necessary life-saving intervention.