What is an appropriate response if a victim is unresponsive and not breathing?

When a victim is unresponsive and not breathing, the immediate and appropriate response is to start high-quality CPR. This action is crucial because the primary goal in this situation is to circulate oxygen-rich blood to the brain and vital organs, which can prevent brain damage and increase the chances of survival.

High-quality CPR includes chest compressions at a rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute, with a depth of at least 2 inches in adults. It also involves allowing full chest recoil between compressions. Starting CPR promptly is essential, as brain cells begin to die after just a few minutes without oxygen.

Monitoring for a pulse is not recommended as an initial step in this scenario because time is critical, and determining a pulse can waste valuable seconds. Waiting for emergency responders without providing assistance can lead to irreversible damage to the victim. Giving rescue breaths only is also not appropriate without chest compressions, as effective circulation is necessary to enhance the effectiveness of rescue breaths. Therefore, initiating high-quality CPR is the best course of action in response to an unresponsive, non-breathing victim.