What is the recommended action when an adult is unresponsive and has no signs of breathing?

When an adult is unresponsive and shows no signs of breathing, the recommended action is to begin CPR immediately. This is crucial because, in situations where someone is not breathing and unresponsive, their body is unable to circulate oxygen to vital organs. Immediate CPR helps to maintain blood flow to the heart and brain, significantly increasing the chance of survival until emergency medical services can arrive.

By performing CPR, you provide chest compressions that can help pump blood throughout the body, and if done correctly, it can restore a more normal rhythm to the heart. Every moment counts in an emergency; therefore, acting quickly by starting CPR is vital to enhancing the person’s chances of recovery. This proactive approach is aligned with CPR guidelines aimed at addressing cardiac arrest and unresponsiveness effectively.

Options such as leaving the person alone, waiting for them to regain consciousness, or giving them water are not appropriate in this life-threatening scenario. These actions do not address the lack of breathing and unresponsiveness and could delay critical intervention.