What action should you take if a patient's pulse is present but they are apneic?

In the scenario where a patient has a pulse but is apneic, the appropriate action is to begin bag-mask ventilation. This is critical because, even though the patient has a pulse indicating that the heart is still functioning, they are not breathing on their own, which can lead to inadequate oxygenation of the blood and potential brain damage or other complications.

Bag-mask ventilation serves to provide the necessary air to the patient's lungs when they are unable to do so themselves. The ventilation helps to ensure that oxygen continues to reach vital organs and prevents further deterioration of the patient's condition. The technique involves creating a good seal over the patient's mouth and nose with the bag-mask device and providing adequate ventilations at a rate that supports their needs while avoiding over-inflation of the lungs.

A patient who is apneic and has a pulse is still at high risk, indicating the need for immediate intervention rather than waiting for spontaneous breaths or checking for signs of circulation, both of which would not actively address the immediate issue of respiratory failure. Initiating bag-mask ventilation is a proactive step in ensuring the patient's airway is managed effectively.