What is the most reliable indicator of adequately performed ventilations in a patient with cyanosis?

The most reliable indicator of adequately performed ventilations in a patient with cyanosis is the resolution of cyanosis. Proper ventilations aim to restore oxygenation, and as oxygen levels improve, visible signs of cyanosis—such as bluish discoloration of the skin and mucous membranes—should decrease or resolve.

Improvement in pulse rate can indicate better perfusion and oxygenation but is not as directly correlated to ventilatory effectiveness as the resolution of cyanosis. A decrease in heart rate typically suggests a potential for bradycardia, often due to hypoxia or other factors and does not indicate adequacy of ventilations. Normal blood pressure, while important, does not directly measure ventilation efficacy and can remain normal or change due to various underlying conditions unrelated to respiratory success.

The resolution of cyanosis directly demonstrates that the intervention is effectively increasing oxygen saturation and addressing the underlying issue, making it the strongest indicator of successful ventilations in this context.