In an adult patient who has a pulse but is not breathing, which actions should be performed?

• A. Suction if needed
• B. Perform a head tilt chin lift
• C. Ventilate via BVM
• D. All of the above

Answer: (D)

When an adult has a pulse but isn’t breathing, the goal is to provide ventilation while keeping the airway open. Start by opening the airway with a head tilt–chin lift to allow air to reach the lungs; if you suspect a spinal injury, use a jaw-thrust to avoid neck movement. Suction is used if needed to clear secretions, blood, or vomit so air can move in and out freely. Then ventilate with a bag‑valve‑mask to deliver breaths, typically one breath every 5–6 seconds (about 10–12 per minute) and watch for the chest to rise with each breath. Because there is a pulse, you would not perform chest compressions; you focus on maintaining ventilation and reassessing for return of spontaneous breathing or pulse. Taken together, these steps address airway patency, removal of obstructions, and actual ventilation, so all of these actions are appropriate in this situation.