If a person is unresponsive and not breathing, which action is appropriate?

• A. Begin CPR immediately and call 911.
• B. Wait for the person to wake up.
• C. Check for a pulse for 5 minutes before acting.
• D. Only call 911 and do nothing else.

Answer: (A)

When someone is unresponsive and not breathing, the priority is to keep blood flowing to the brain and other vital organs while help is on the way. Start CPR immediately, delivering chest compressions at a pace of about 100–120 per minute and about 2 inches deep for an adult. If you’re trained, after 30 compressions give two rescue breaths, then continue the cycle of 30:2 until help arrives or an AED is ready to use. While you begin CPR, have someone call 911 or do it yourself if you’re alone and can call quickly; if an AED is available, turn it on and follow its prompts. Waiting to check for a pulse or hoping the person will wake up wastes crucial time, and simply calling for help without starting chest compressions won’t provide the rapid circulation the body needs.