What is a primary indication for performing CPR in an unresponsive patient?

The primary indication for performing CPR in an unresponsive patient is the absence of pulse. When a patient is unresponsive and exhibits no signs of circulation, such as the absence of pulse, it indicates that the heart is not beating effectively, which can lead to brain death and other organ failures within minutes. In such situations, immediate CPR can help circulate oxygenated blood to the vital organs, particularly the brain, and sustain life until advanced medical help arrives.

In contrast, the other options might suggest a need for medical attention, but they do not directly indicate the immediate necessity for CPR. For instance, difficulty breathing might require other interventions, such as airway management or oxygen administration, while severe bleeding would necessitate control of the bleeding rather than CPR itself. Visible fractures, while concerning, also do not imply the need for immediate CPR unless accompanied by cardiovascular compromise. Therefore, the absence of pulse directly correlates with the need for CPR in unresponsive patients.