What should a rescuer confirm before initiating rescue breaths for an unresponsive diver?

Before a rescuer initiates rescue breaths for an unresponsive diver, it is crucial to confirm that the diver is not breathing. This step is essential because rescue breaths are intended for individuals who are not breathing on their own to provide necessary oxygenation and prevent brain damage or death. By verifying the absence of breathing, the rescuer can ensure that the intervention is both appropriate and urgent.

In cases where a diver may be unresponsive but is still breathing, initiating rescue breaths would not only be unnecessary but could also complicate the situation. Therefore, confirming that the diver is indeed not breathing is a critical step in the assessment of the emergency situation before proceeding with further actions, such as initiating CPR or providing rescue breaths.