Which sign indicates that CPR should be initiated?

• A. Normal breathing patterns
• B. Unresponsive and not breathing
• C. High blood pressure
• D. Severe headache

Answer: (B)

Initiating CPR is critical in emergencies when a person has stopped breathing or is unresponsive. The correct indication for starting CPR is the combination of unresponsiveness and the absence of breathing. When someone is unresponsive, it means they are not reacting to stimuli and cannot be aroused, which indicates a severe medical emergency. Additionally, if they are not breathing, their heart may have stopped beating, leading to a need for immediate intervention to provide oxygen and circulate blood until professional medical help can take over.

Normal breathing patterns suggest that the person is stable, while high blood pressure and severe headache are signs of other health issues, but they do not indicate the immediate need for CPR. Recognizing unresponsiveness and the lack of breath is essential because prompt CPR can significantly increase the chances of survival and reduce the risk of brain damage.