During a rescue breath, what should be monitored closely?

Monitoring chest expansion during a rescue breath is critical because it helps confirm that the breaths being administered are effective and that air is indeed entering the victim's lungs. When you perform rescue breaths, you should observe the chest rise and fall as you deliver the air. This visual cue indicates that the breath is going into the lungs rather than being improperly administered, such as into the esophagus. Proper chest expansion suggests that the victim receives necessary oxygen, which is vital in cases of respiratory distress.

Other factors, like skin color, heart rate, and breathing sounds, are also important but serve different roles in assessing the overall condition of the victim. Skin color can indicate circulation and oxygenation but may not provide immediate feedback on the effectiveness of the rescue breaths. Monitoring heart rate is crucial in assessing the victim's overall condition but does not directly reflect the immediate impact of rescue breaths. Breathing sounds may provide information about potential obstructions or lung conditions but won't indicate whether your breaths are getting through in the moment.