What does the term "ventilation" in CPR refer to?

The term "ventilation" in CPR specifically refers to the process of providing air to the victim's lungs. This is a critical component of cardiopulmonary resuscitation, as it ensures that oxygen is delivered to the body, particularly to the brain and other vital organs, when the normal breathing process is compromised or has stopped.

During CPR, especially in scenarios where an individual's heart is not beating effectively, performing ventilations helps supply oxygen to the circulatory system, which is essential for maintaining cellular function and preventing irreversible damage due to oxygen deprivation. Ventilation can be provided through mouth-to-mouth breathing or the use of a rescue breathing device.

Understanding this term is crucial for anyone learning CPR, as effective ventilation can significantly increase the chances of survival for a person in cardiac arrest. This aspect of CPR highlights the importance of both circulation (via chest compressions) and ventilation in restoring adequate oxygen flow to the body's tissues.