If normal breathing is detected but no pulse is felt, what is the appropriate action?

When normal breathing is detected but no pulse is felt, the appropriate action is to provide immediate recognition that this situation indicates a serious medical condition, potentially cardiac arrest where the individual is not effectively circulating blood despite breathing. In this scenario, you need to intervene to support both ventilation and circulation.

Starting CPR immediately is crucial in this case, as it provides blood flow to vital organs. Even if the person is breathing normally, the absence of a pulse can indicate that they are not effectively perfusing their organs and tissues, putting their life at significant risk.

Providing rescue breaths might be necessary in other situations, but in the context of no pulse—where circulation is the immediate concern—rescue breaths alone would not be sufficient.

Monitoring the individual until EMS arrives without taking further action is not appropriate in this instance, as it neglects the urgent need for intervention when a pulse is absent.

Inserting an airway adjunct might be useful to maintain an open airway if the person is unconscious and breathing, but it does not address the immediate lack of circulation that requires CPR.

Therefore, the best course of action in a situation where normal breathing is observed but no pulse is palpable is to begin CPR immediately to restore circulation and prevent further harm.