Final answer:
When a victim is unresponsive and not breathing, a healthcare provider should check for a pulse for no more than 10 seconds before beginning CPR. The urgency of such a situation is reflected in the Apgar score for newborns, and immediate response is crucial due to the risk of brain damage from oxygen deprivation.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to current guidelines, when a victim is unresponsive and not breathing, it is recommended that a healthcare provider check a pulse for no more than 10 seconds before starting cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). In a situation where heart rate and respiration are compromised, such as with the Apgar score assessment in newborns, prompt action may be critical. The Apgar score evaluates five criteria including skin color, heart rate, reflexes, muscle tone, and respiration, which are crucial indicators of a newborn's health. Performing high-quality chest compressions is emphasized over artificial respiration, with a current standard rate of 100 compressions per minute. This rapid response is vital as irreversible brain damage or death can occur within minutes due to lack of oxygen.