When should rescue breathing be initiated?

Rescue breathing should be initiated when the victim is unresponsive and not breathing because this indicates that the person is in respiratory failure. In such a situation, the body is not getting enough oxygen, which is crucial for sustaining life. Providing rescue breaths helps to deliver the necessary oxygen into the lungs and subsequently into the bloodstream, addressing the primary issue of inadequate oxygenation.

The emphasis on unresponsiveness highlights that the victim is likely unable to breathe on their own. If the victim is breathing, even if it is labored or struggling, it is generally unnecessary to perform rescue breathing, as they are still receiving some level of oxygen. This situation is critical in emergency scenarios, as timely intervention can prevent irreversible damage to vital organs, especially the brain. Therefore, recognizing the absence of response and breath is essential for determining when to engage in rescue breathing.