What is the priority action when you observe a patient with no signs of breathing and a central pulse?

When a patient shows no signs of breathing but has a central pulse, the immediate priority action is to start rescue breaths. This is because the presence of a pulse means that the heart is still functioning to some extent, but the lack of breathing indicates that the patient is not effectively ventilating. Administering rescue breaths provides the necessary oxygen to the lungs, which is critical for maintaining oxygenation in the body while the heart is still beating.

Initiating rescue breaths can help prevent brain damage and other complications due to the lack of oxygen. It is essential to deliver the breaths at the appropriate rate and volume to ensure effective ventilation.

While other actions like activating the emergency response system or monitoring for bleeding may be important, they are secondary to the immediate need to ensure that the patient is receiving adequate breath support.