What should be done if a victim is unresponsive and not breathing?

When a victim is unresponsive and not breathing, starting CPR immediately is critical. This action aims to maintain blood circulation and oxygenation to vital organs, particularly the brain, during a cardiac arrest. The lack of responsiveness indicates a potential life-threatening situation, and absence of breathing confirms that the heart may not be effectively pumping blood.

Performing CPR helps to provide artificial circulation, which can significantly improve the chances of survival and minimize brain injury. The sooner CPR is initiated, the better the outcomes can be for the victim. It is essential to begin with chest compressions and follow up with rescue breaths if trained to do so.

The option to wait for the victim to recover is inappropriate since this could lead to irreversible damage due to a lack of oxygen. Simply calling for help without taking action also neglects the immediate needs of the victim. Checking for a pulse may take too long, and in a critical situation, a heartbeat may not be detectable even if CPR is required, making this option ineffective for a timely response.