What should you ensure before giving rescue breaths?

Before giving rescue breaths, it is crucial to ensure that the airway is clear and open. This step is essential because obstructed airways can prevent effective breathing, making rescue breaths ineffective or even harmful. When a person is unresponsive or unable to breathe adequately, it is vital to first check that nothing is blocking the airway, such as vomit, blood, or any foreign objects.

Opening the airway usually involves using techniques such as the head tilt-chin lift maneuver, which helps to ensure that the passage for air is unobstructed. Only after confirming that the airway is open can you proceed to deliver rescue breaths effectively, ensuring that oxygen reaches the lungs and can then circulate throughout the body. This action is fundamental in emergency response and helps improve the chances of survival in cardiac arrest situations.