What should you do if an adult becomes unresponsive and displays abnormal breathing?

When an adult becomes unresponsive and exhibits abnormal breathing, the immediate and appropriate action is to call emergency services and start CPR without delay. This response is critical because unresponsiveness combined with abnormal breathing indicates a potential life-threatening condition, such as cardiac arrest. The abnormal breathing can include gasping or shallow breaths, which do not provide adequate oxygenation to vital organs.

Starting CPR promptly is essential to maintain blood flow to the brain and other organs, which can significantly improve the chances of survival and reduce the risk of permanent damage due to lack of oxygen. Additionally, calling emergency services ensures that professional medical help is en route while you begin resuscitative efforts, further increasing the patient's chances of recovery.

It's important to act swiftly; leaving the person to seek help or waiting to see if they regain consciousness could result in harmful delays. Monitoring them without starting CPR does not address the underlying issues posed by the lack of effective breathing or circulation.