What is the priority action to take when a patient has a pulse but is not breathing?

When a patient has a pulse but is not breathing, the top priority is to provide care for respiratory arrest. This involves first administering ventilations to ensure that the patient receives adequate oxygenation. Since the heart is still beating, the primary concern is to address the lack of breathing, which can result in hypoxia and subsequent brain injury if not promptly corrected.

In this situation, the immediate focus should be on restoring effective ventilation. The standard procedure is to start with rescue breaths, using an appropriate method such as mouth-to-mouth or a bag-mask device, depending on the available resources and training. This action helps to deliver oxygen to the lungs and, consequently, to the bloodstream, thereby safeguarding vital organ function while allowing the heart to continue its normal rhythmic activity.

Other options, while relevant in different emergency scenarios, are not the priority here. Initiating chest compressions is reserved for cases of cardiac arrest where no pulse is present. Calling for additional help may be necessary, but immediate interventions for breathing are crucial and should not be delayed. Checking for signs of injury can be important but should take place after ensuring that the patient is receiving the necessary respiratory support.