When should you intervene with high-quality CPR?

Intervening with high-quality CPR is critical when a victim is unresponsive and not breathing normally. This situation indicates that the heart is likely not effectively pumping blood, and the victim is not receiving the oxygen needed for survival. CPR helps maintain blood flow to vital organs, especially the brain and heart, until professional medical help arrives or until the victim shows signs of recovery.

In this context, rapid breathing or showing signs of awareness does not necessarily indicate that immediate intervention is required. Additionally, if the victim has a pulse, CPR is not indicated since the heart is still functioning to circulate blood. Recognizing when to start CPR is essential for improving the chances of survival for someone experiencing a cardiac emergency.