If an adult is not breathing but has a pulse, what is the immediate action?

• A. Provide rescue breaths at a rate of about 1 breath every 5-6 seconds.
• B. Call EMS and wait.
• C. Begin chest compressions.
• D. Check for breathing again.

Answer: (A)

When an adult isn’t breathing but still has a pulse, the priority is to provide rescue breaths to re-oxygenate the blood. Since circulation is present, you don’t start chest compressions right away. Deliver breaths at about one every five to six seconds (roughly 10–12 breaths per minute). Each breath should last about a second and cause the chest to rise. Open the airway with a head tilt–chin lift (or jaw thrust if neck injury is suspected) and give breaths smoothly. If air doesn’t go in, reposition and try again. Keep delivering rescue breaths until the person starts breathing on their own or emergency help arrives. If the pulse disappears, begin CPR with chest compressions.