What is the critical sign that CPR should be initiated?

The critical sign that CPR should be initiated is when a person is unresponsive and not breathing. This situation indicates that the person's heart may have stopped beating effectively, which leads to a lack of oxygen being delivered to the brain and other vital organs. In this scenario, immediate intervention is necessary because the chances of survival diminish significantly with every passing minute without adequate circulation and breathing.

Recognizing unresponsiveness is crucial; it means the individual is in cardiac arrest or could be experiencing other life-threatening emergencies. The absence of breathing further confirms the need for CPR, as it highlights that the respiratory system is not functioning properly, preventing oxygen from reaching the body.

In contrast, if a person is breathing normally or is responsive and talking, those are signs that they are likely not in immediate danger and do not require CPR at that moment. Coughing, while it might indicate an obstruction or another issue, does not provide a clear indication that CPR is needed. Overall, understanding these signs helps ensure timely and effective response in emergency situations.