What should be done to ensure safety during rescue breaths?

Using protective barriers during rescue breaths is essential for ensuring the safety of both the person giving the breaths and the person receiving them. These barriers, such as a pocket mask or a face shield, help to reduce the risk of disease transmission that could occur through mouth-to-mouth contact. They serve as a physical barrier between the rescuer and the victim, thus providing an added layer of protection, especially in emergency situations where the health status of the victim may be unknown.

Protective barriers not only enhance safety but also allow the rescuer to perform the task more effectively by giving a clear and unobstructed pathway for delivering breaths. This method also helps in maintaining proper hygiene and preventing possible infections, making it a key practice in first aid and basic life support.

In contrast, while having someone watching may provide support, it does not directly contribute to the safety concerning health risks involved in giving rescue breaths. Changing the position frequently or performing breaths quickly could compromise the effectiveness of the breaths being delivered. Therefore, using protective barriers is the best practice for ensuring safety during rescue breaths.