What action should you take if a child is unresponsive and not breathing?

When a child is unresponsive and not breathing, the most critical action to take is to begin CPR immediately and call for emergency help. This response is essential because an unresponsive individual who is not breathing is likely experiencing a life-threatening emergency, such as cardiac arrest.

Starting CPR provides critical blood flow to the brain and vital organs, increasing the chances of survival. Time is of the essence in such situations, and initiating CPR as quickly as possible is crucial for improving outcomes. The process involves giving rescue breaths and chest compressions, which together help maintain blood circulation and oxygenation until professional medical assistance arrives.

Calling for emergency help at the same time ensures that additional medical resources are on the way, as CPR alone is not enough to resolve the underlying issue but is vital for sustaining life until further intervention can occur. This combined approach maximizes the child’s chances of recovery.

In this scenario, monitoring the child until they wake up or merely starting first aid while waiting for help would not effectively address the urgent need for immediate intervention. Checking for a pulse might delay the initiation of life-saving measures, which can be detrimental in a critical situation where every second counts. Therefore, the course of action that includes immediate CPR and notification for emergency services is the best