What should you do if a rescue breath does not make the chest rise?

When providing rescue breaths, it's crucial to ensure that each breath is effective in delivering oxygen into the lungs. If the chest does not rise, the primary action is to reposition the head and try again. This technique, often referred to as the "head-tilt, chin-lift" maneuver, helps open the airway by moving the tongue away from the back of the throat, which may be obstructing airflow. Ensuring a clear and open airway is essential for proper ventilation.

If the head is not tilted correctly, air may not reach the lungs effectively, leading to ineffective breaths. By adjusting the position of the head and then attempting the rescue breath again, you increase the likelihood of successful ventilation, allowing oxygen to enter the lungs and circulate through the body.

The other options may lead to unnecessary complications or missed opportunities for effective rescue breaths. Continuing to breathe into the mouth without checking could result in wasted efforts if the airway is still obstructed. Giving chest compressions immediately without addressing the airway issue may not be appropriate if a chance to ventilate has not yet been properly assessed. Preventing air leakage and trying again without repositioning could also be ineffective since the initial position may not have allowed air to enter the lungs properly.