What is a quick breath check used for during rescue respiratory effort?

The purpose of a quick breath check during a rescue respiratory effort is to determine if the guest is breathing. This is a critical step in assessing the victim's condition because effective breathing is essential for life. If a person is not breathing, emergency responders can quickly decide on the necessary interventions, such as providing rescue breaths or starting CPR.

During this check, a lifeguard or rescuer will look for visible signs of breathing, such as chest rise and fall or listen for breath sounds. The emphasis is on promptly identifying the presence or absence of breath to take the appropriate lifesaving actions. Recognizing this fundamental aspect of assessment helps to prioritize care and ensure the highest chances of survival for the affected individual.