What is the recommended action if a casualty is not breathing?

Performing CPR is the recommended action when a casualty is not breathing because it serves as a life-saving measure aimed at restoring circulation and breathing. Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation is a combination of chest compressions and rescue breaths that helps maintain blood flow and oxygenation to vital organs until further medical assistance can be provided.

When a person is not breathing, their heart may also be compromised, making immediate intervention crucial. CPR can double or even triple the chance of survival for someone experiencing cardiac arrest or respiratory failure. By starting CPR quickly, you are providing essential support to the casualty's body, giving them a better chance of recovery when emergency responders arrive.

In terms of other actions, waiting for help would delay critical interventions, checking for a pulse may take up time that could be better spent performing CPR, and elevating the casualty's legs is generally not appropriate or effective in this situation where immediate respiration or circulation support is needed. This reinforces the importance of taking prompt action and leads to the conclusion that performing CPR is the correct and immediate response to a non-breathing casualty.