When should a patient be given CPR?

The correct answer is that CPR should be performed when there is no breathing or pulse detected. This scenario indicates that the patient is in cardiac arrest, which requires immediate action to restore circulation and breathing. The purpose of CPR is to maintain vital blood flow to the heart and brain until professional medical help arrives or an automated external defibrillator (AED) can be utilized.

Performing CPR in the absence of breathing or a pulse is critical because it can significantly increase the chances of survival and minimize the risk of permanent damage to vital organs. The absence of these signs means that the heart is not effectively pumping blood, and without prompt intervention, the likelihood of recovery diminishes rapidly.

The other options do not align with the criteria for administering CPR. Fainting or confusion may indicate other medical issues, but they do not necessarily mean that CPR is required. A patient may be unresponsive for various reasons, but if there is still a pulse and breathing, CPR would not be appropriate. It is essential to assess the patient's condition accurately to determine the need for CPR effectively.