Which action does NOT help determine adequate breathing during CPR?

Counting respirations for 30 seconds does not help determine adequate breathing during CPR because, in a situation where CPR is necessary, you generally do not have that much time to assess a patient’s breathing in such a prolonged manner. The emphasis during CPR is on ensuring that rescue breaths are effective and the chest is rising adequately, indicating that air is being delivered into the lungs.

Assessing the effectiveness of breathing can be accomplished through immediate visual cues, auditory signals, and tactile feedback. Observing the chest rise and fall directly indicates that air is being taken in and expelled, while listening for the escape of air can confirm that ventilation is occurring. Similarly, feeling for the flow of air can provide instant feedback on whether the breaths given are adequate and if the air is entering the lungs. These actions ensure timely and effective intervention during a critical life-saving procedure.