What should be done if someone is unresponsive and not breathing normally?

When encountering someone who is unresponsive and not breathing normally, the appropriate action is to start CPR and, if available, administer naloxone as soon as possible. Immediate CPR is crucial because it helps maintain blood flow and oxygen to vital organs, especially the brain, until professional medical help can take over.

Administering naloxone is particularly important in cases of an opioid overdose, as it can quickly reverse the effects of opioids and restore normal breathing. The combination of CPR and naloxone significantly increases the chance of survival and reduces the risk of long-term brain damage. Time is of the essence in these situations, and initiating these actions promptly is vital.

Monitoring the individual without taking action does not address the life-threatening emergency at hand. Encouraging someone who is unresponsive to remain awake and talking is not appropriate, as their condition requires immediate medical attention, not distraction or stimulation. Simply calling a friend for help, while potentially helpful for additional support, does not provide the immediate intervention that is responsible for addressing unresponsiveness and abnormal breathing. Therefore, starting CPR and administering naloxone when indicated stands out as the critical, life-saving response in this scenario.