American Lifeguard Practice Exam 2026 - Free Lifeguard Certification Practice Questions and Study Guide

Delivering effective rescue breaths is crucial for restoring oxygen to a victim who is not breathing adequately. A visible rise of the chest indicates that the air being delivered is entering the lungs properly. This occurs when the airway has been effectively opened, allowing for the positive pressure from the breaths to inflate the lungs. When a lifeguard observes this physical sign, it confirms that the breaths are reaching the respiratory system and that the technique being used is appropriate.

While the other options reflect positive outcomes of effective resuscitation, they are not immediate indicators of effective rescue breaths. A victim responding verbally, regaining consciousness, or stabilizing heart rate are all subsequent signs of the overall effectiveness of the resuscitation process rather than direct indicators of the quality of rescue breaths being administered. Thus, the visible rise of the chest serves as the immediate and observable outcome that confirms effective airflow into the lungs.