What is the primary intervention for a patient who has collapsed and is unresponsive, showing no signs of breathing?

Study for the Board Certified Cardiology Pharmacist Exam. Utilize flashcards and answer multiple-choice questions with detailed explanations. Prepare efficiently for your certification!

The primary intervention for a patient who has collapsed and is unresponsive, particularly with no signs of breathing, is to start chest compressions. This is a critical component of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and is vital for maintaining circulation to vital organs when the heart has stopped beating effectively or has stopped altogether. The initiation of chest compressions helps to create artificial circulation, which can significantly increase the chances of survival until emergency medical services arrive.

In this scenario, calling emergency services is important and should ideally be done immediately or concurrently; however, the priority is to begin chest compressions to restore blood flow. Opening the airway and delivering rescue breaths are also components of CPR, but they are secondary to chest compressions when dealing with an unresponsive patient who is not breathing. The current guidelines emphasize the start of chest compressions first in such a dire situation. Thus, initiating chest compressions is the most appropriate and immediate response in this urgent scenario.

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