In what circumstance would you use rescue breathing?

Rescue breathing is indicated when an individual has a pulse but is not breathing adequately or is experiencing ineffective breathing. This situation occurs in cases of respiratory distress or failure where the heart is still beating, but the person cannot maintain proper oxygenation due to insufficient or ineffective breaths.

In this context, providing rescue breaths can help to supply the necessary oxygen to the lungs and subsequently to the bloodstream, thus supporting the victim's oxygenation. It is crucial to perform these breaths at a proper ratio to chest compressions if CPR is also being performed, typically at a rate of one breath every five to six seconds, ensuring that the individual’s airway is open.

In contrast, situations that do not warrant rescue breaths include cases where there is no pulse or normal breathing, as in the absence of circulation, rescue breathing alone would not be effective without immediate CPR. Similarly, administering rescue breaths when the victim is responsive and breathing normally would be unnecessary, as they can breathe on their own.