What intervention can be used for a patient who is not breathing?

Rescue breaths or bag-mask ventilation is a critical intervention for a patient who is not breathing. This method directly addresses the lack of ventilation, which is essential for delivering oxygen to the lungs and maintaining oxygenation of the blood. When a patient is unresponsive and not breathing, providing rescue breaths can help re-establish the flow of oxygen to vital organs, which is crucial for survival.

Bag-mask ventilation is particularly effective because it allows a healthcare provider to ensure adequate air delivery to the lungs while maintaining a proper seal around the patient's mouth and nose. This helps maximize the volume of air delivered with each breath. Properly performed, this intervention can prevent further deterioration of the patient’s condition until advanced care is available or spontaneous breathing resumes.

Other interventions, such as immediate CPR and chest compressions, are essential if there is also a lack of circulation, but if the primary issue is solely ineffective breathing, the focus should be on ensuring adequate ventilation first. While calling for emergency help is a necessary step in the overall management of an unresponsive individual, it does not address the immediate need for airway management and breathing support.