You respond to a 9-month-old male who stopped breathing after a seizure. What action should be performed?

Prepare for the New York Certified First Responder Exam. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

In the scenario where a 9-month-old male has stopped breathing after a seizure, performing mouth-to-mask ventilations with puffs of air until the chest rises is a critical and appropriate action. This technique helps establish adequate ventilation, which is essential for oxygenation and preventing further complications.

For infants, ensuring the airway is open is paramount, and using a mask designed for their size allows for a more effective seal and delivery of breaths. The emphasis on providing ventilation until the chest rises indicates that the responder is actively assessing the effectiveness of the breaths being given.

In contrast, hyperextending the neck in an infant can lead to airway obstruction rather than opening it, as their anatomical structure is different from that of older children and adults. Providing supplemental oxygen without adequate ventilation would not suffice, especially if the airway is obstructed or if the infant is not breathing. Lastly, performing a finger sweep only when there is visible obstruction is appropriate; however, it should not be performed routinely without reason, as it can potentially push an obstruction further down the airway.

Thus, initiating effective mouth-to-mask ventilation is the best immediate action to support this infant's breathing challenge.

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