What action should you take for an unresponsive person while waiting for EMS?

Initiating CPR immediately for an unresponsive person is crucial because it serves to maintain blood circulation and oxygenation to vital organs, particularly the brain, until emergency medical services (EMS) arrive. When a person is unresponsive, it indicates that they may not be breathing adequately or at all. By starting CPR, you create artificial circulation through chest compressions, which helps to keep oxygenated blood flowing to the heart and brain.

This action is especially critical in cases of cardiac arrest. Every minute that passes without CPR significantly reduces the chances of survival, so quick action is essential. If the person shows no signs of breathing or pulse, CPR becomes lifesaving and can double or even triple survival rates.

In contrast, while turning an unresponsive individual on their side can help if they are breathing but not fully conscious, it's not the immediate action required if they are unresponsive and not breathing properly. Monitoring breathing and pulse is also important, but it should be done in conjunction with or followed by CPR when the person is unresponsive. Providing water is not appropriate for an unresponsive person, as it poses a choking risk. Immediate intervention with CPR is the most effective course of action until professional help arrives.