If a person is not breathing normally and has no pulse, what is the recommended response?

• A. Check for responsiveness and call for help.
• B. Gently shake and encourage talking.
• C. Begin CPR immediately with chest compressions; call EMS or have someone do so while you start.
• D. Wait for emergency services before starting anything.

Answer: (C)

When someone isn’t breathing normally and has no pulse, the heart isn’t effectively pumping blood to the brain and other vital organs. The first and most important action is to start CPR immediately to create blood flow and keep the person alive. Begin chest compressions right away, pushing hard and fast in the center of the chest, about 100–120 compressions per minute and to a depth of roughly 2 inches (5 cm) for adults, allowing the chest to fully recoil between compressions. Don’t wait to check for a pulse or to get everything perfect—start compressions now and get help as soon as you can. If someone can call emergency services or an AED at the same time, have them do so while you begin. If you’re trained, you can alternate 30 compressions with 2 rescue breaths; if you’re not trained or aren’t comfortable giving breaths, continuous chest compressions alone are better than doing nothing. Turn on an AED as soon as it’s available and follow its prompts. The goal is to maintain circulation until professional help arrives.