ADULT RESCUE BREATHING

 For HCPs, follow the full BLS protocol, which includes checking for a pulse and providing rescue breathing. Rescue breathing is the act of providing assisted breaths to an unresponsive victim who has a pulse but is not breathing.

Rescue Breathing Methods

This can be performed using:

• A barrier device (e.g., face shield or mask).
• A bag-mask device if available.
• Mouth-to-mouth if no other options exist.

Rescue Breathing for Adults

• Provide 1 breath every 5–6 seconds (about 10–12 breaths per minute).
• Each breath should be given over 1 second and should result in visible chest rise.
• Recheck the pulse approximately every 2 minutes.

Confirm ERS Activation

Ensure that emergency help has been called and continue providing rescue breathing. If opioid overdose is suspected, consider administering naloxone, if available.

WHEN TO BEGIN FULL CPR

If the victim is not breathing and has no pulse, begin CPR immediately with chest compressions followed by rescue breaths (30:2 ratio). Continue until:

• EMS or Advanced Life Support (ALS) arrives.
• The victim shows clear signs of life (normal breathing, movement, pulse returns).
• Another trained provider takes over CPR.
• You are too exhausted to continue safely.