Final answer:
Mouth-to-mouth rescue breaths are indicated during CPR when an individual is not breathing or not breathing normally, like in severe respiratory distress or cardiac arrest. They are especially critical if the CPR is initiated quickly and there's no water in the lungs, increasing the chances of full recovery. The Heimlich maneuver should be employed first in choking incidents to clear the airway.
Step-by-step explanation:
Mouth-to-mouth rescue breaths are indicated during cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) when a person is not breathing or not breathing normally, such as in cases of severe respiratory distress or cardiac arrest. When the heart stops, the absence of oxygenated blood can cause brain damage in a few minutes. Therefore, rescue breaths in conjunction with chest compressions can provide vital oxygen to the brain and other organs.
Current CPR guidelines emphasize the importance of high-quality chest compressions over artificial respiration, yet mouth-to-mouth resuscitation remains a critical component when performed by trained individuals, especially if the victim is not receiving enough oxygen. It's important to note that the process differs slightly between an unconscious individual who has suffered from drowning compared to one who hasn't. Without water in the lungs, CPR including rescue breaths is more effective, and the chance of full recovery is higher if performed within minutes.
In situations such as choking, where the airway is obstructed, the Heimlich maneuver may be necessary to remove the blockage before initiating rescue breaths. Recognizing signs of choking, like inability to speak or labored breathing, is essential for timely intervention.