What is the appropriate action for an adult victim who is not breathing?

When an adult victim is not breathing, the immediate and appropriate action is to initiate cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and call for emergency medical services. This response is essential because the absence of breathing can indicate that the heart may also not be functioning properly, which requires immediate intervention to maintain blood flow and oxygenation to vital organs.

Initiating CPR involves chest compressions that help circulate blood and can prevent irreversible damage to the brain and other critical tissues. Time is a crucial factor in these situations; therefore, promptly calling for emergency medical services ensures that advanced medical assistance arrives as quickly as possible.

Other responses such as checking for a pulse, placing the victim in a recovery position, or waiting for bystanders to assist may delay critical intervention. Checking for a pulse is important in certain contexts, but in an unresponsive victim who isn't breathing, starting CPR takes precedence, as healthcare guidelines prioritize immediate chest compressions to provide support until professional help arrives.