Under what condition should a lifeguard provide rescue breaths?

Providing rescue breaths is crucial in a situation where the victim is unresponsive and not breathing normally. This condition indicates that the individual is not able to breathe adequately on their own, which could lead to respiratory failure or cardiac arrest if not addressed promptly. By administering rescue breaths, the lifeguard can help deliver oxygen directly into the victim's lungs, which is vital in maintaining blood oxygen levels and increasing the chances of survival until more advanced medical help arrives.

In cases where the victim has a strong pulse, they may still be capable of breathing or may not need rescue breaths at that moment, since the presence of a pulse suggests some level of circulation. If the individual is conscious and speaking, they are clearly breathing and do not require rescue breaths. Similarly, signs of minor injuries do not typically necessitate the immediate provision of rescue breaths, as these injuries may not impact the victim's breathing capability. It's essential to focus on the specific signs of unresponsiveness and abnormal breathing patterns to act appropriately in emergency situations.