When should an EMT initiate CPR?

Initiating CPR is a critical response when dealing with a patient who is unresponsive and has no pulse. This indicates that the heart is not effectively pumping blood, which leads to a lack of oxygenated blood reaching vital organs. In such situations, starting CPR promptly can help maintain blood circulation and oxygenation until advanced medical care can be provided. The goal is to preserve brain function and increase the chances of survival.

The other scenarios do not warrant the immediate initiation of CPR. For instance, initiating CPR solely based on visible injuries does not address the underlying concern of cardiac arrest or failure. If the patient is unconscious but still breathing, CPR is also not necessary, as breathing indicates that the patient has some level of respiratory function. Finally, performing CPR as a precaution before transport is not appropriate because it must be clinically indicated, specifically by the absence of pulse, rather than a preventive measure. The correct response to the situation guides an EMT's intervention protocol for optimal patient outcomes.