Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) Practice 2025 - Free CPR Practice Questions and Study Tips.

The appropriate action when unsure whether a victim is breathing is to begin CPR immediately. This decision is crucial as it prioritizes the victim's chances of survival.

When assessing a victim, if there is uncertainty about their breathing, the situation may be critical. Effective CPR can help maintain blood flow and oxygen delivery to vital organs until emergency medical services arrive. The American Heart Association guidelines emphasize that if a person is unresponsive and does not exhibit normal breathing, CPR should be initiated without delay.

While waiting for emergency services may seem like a safer option, doing so puts the victim at significant risk, especially if they require immediate intervention. Similarly, performing rescue breaths or checking for a pulse may waste precious time. Rescue breaths are only appropriate when there is confirmed breathing but an insufficient airway, and checking for a pulse can be challenging and may lead to delays in lifesaving actions.

Thus, initiating CPR ensures that help is being provided rapidly, significantly increasing the likelihood of a positive outcome for the victim.