When should rescue breathing be used?

Rescue breathing should be used when the victim has a pulse but is not breathing. This situation indicates that the heart is still functioning and pumping blood, but the person is unable to oxygenate that blood due to their inability to breathe. Administering rescue breaths allows you to provide necessary oxygen to the lungs, helping to restore normal oxygen levels in the bloodstream.

In cases where the victim is unconscious but has a pulse, it is essential to confirm their ability to breathe effectively. If there is no breathing, rescue breathing is critical to prevent brain damage and maintain vital organ function. This intervention is specifically designed to address situations where breathing has stopped, emphasizing the importance of administering breaths to support the respiratory system while the heart is still functioning.