Why is it important to check for a pulse during CPR?

Checking for a pulse during CPR is vital for several reasons, particularly regarding the specific action of assessing the effectiveness of chest compressions. When performing CPR, the primary goal is to maintain blood flow to vital organs, especially the brain and heart, until emergency medical services arrive.

Knowing whether there is a pulse helps determine if the chest compressions are effectively restoring circulation. If there is no pulse, this indicates that the heart is not beating adequately, and chest compressions should continue. The absence of a pulse signals that the person is in cardiac arrest, reinforcing the need for ongoing CPR.

In terms of the other options, while rescue breaths may be important if there is a pulse and breathing is inadequate, that is not the primary reason for checking a pulse. Likewise, checking for medication needs or determining when to stop CPR focuses on different aspects of care and management during resuscitation. The lack of a pulse directly guides the rescuer in the effectiveness of their efforts to restore circulation, making it crucial to check for a pulse during the CPR process.