How long should one attempt to feel for a pulse before starting chest compressions?

When assessing the presence of a pulse in an adult or child who appears to be unresponsive and not breathing normally, it is crucial to act quickly to determine if the individual requires immediate resuscitation efforts. The recommended timeframe for feeling for a pulse is up to 10 seconds.

This duration strikes a balance between thorough assessment and the urgency of initiating chest compressions if no pulse is detected. If a pulse is not felt within this period, it is essential to begin chest compressions immediately, as this is vital to maintain blood flow to vital organs and can be life-saving.

Exceeding this timeframe can lead to delays in delivering critical care, which is why the 10-second guideline is a standard in emergency protocols and instruction. In situations of cardiac arrest, every second counts, making prompt decision-making essential.