American Red Cross Basic Life Support (BLS) Provider Practice Test

Beginning CPR immediately is the recommended action when encountering a child who is not breathing. This is critical because without breathing, the child is not receiving oxygen, which is vital for sustaining life. In cases of cardiac arrest or respiratory failure, every second counts, and initiating CPR promptly can significantly increase the chances of survival and recovery.

Additionally, CPR helps maintain blood flow to the heart and brain, which is essential until emergency medical services arrive. The process involves delivering chest compressions and rescue breaths, providing artificial circulation and ventilation to the child, thereby offering vital support until help can take over.

While checking for responsiveness, calling for help, or assessing for choking may seem like logical steps, these actions can lead to unnecessary delays in providing the life-saving assistance needed in such urgent situations. CPR should be the immediate priority in a situation where breathing has ceased.