What should a first responder do when they determine a victim is breathless but has a pulse?

When a first responder identifies that a victim is breathless but has a pulse, initiating rescue breathing is the appropriate action. This situation indicates that the victim's heart is still functioning, as evidenced by the presence of a pulse, but they are unable to breathe effectively on their own. In such cases, the goal is to provide adequate oxygen to the lungs to prevent hypoxia and to help maintain vital organ function until further medical help arrives.

Initiating rescue breathing involves providing breaths to the victim using techniques such as mouth-to-mouth or a bag-valve-mask, depending on the responder's training and available equipment. The number and frequency of breaths administered should align with current guidelines, typically providing one breath every 5 to 6 seconds for an adult.

Other actions such as clearing the airway may be necessary if there is an obstruction, but the immediate and prioritized action when a pulse is present and breathlessness is identified is to facilitate ventilation through rescue breathing. Monitoring the victim closely is important, but it does not address the immediate need for respiratory support. Beginning CPR, however, is not warranted since the victim still has a pulse.