If you are unable to give breaths during CPR, what is the best action to take?

When you are unable to give breaths during CPR, the best action is to provide continuous chest compressions. This is because chest compressions are critical for maintaining blood circulation to vital organs, especially the heart and brain, during cardiac arrest. They help to keep blood flowing even in the absence of breaths, which is important when a person is not breathing.

Continuous chest compressions, often referred to as "hands-only CPR," can be effective in increasing the chances of survival until advanced medical help arrives. The focus in this situation should be on maintaining adequate circulation, as the heart is unable to pump effectively, and oxygenation can still occur through the residual oxygen in the blood.

Giving rescue breaths may not be feasible if you are unable to do so, and stopping CPR altogether would lead to a critical loss of circulation. Abdominal thrusts are intended for choking situations, not cardiac arrest, and would not be appropriate in this context. Therefore, engaging in continuous chest compressions maximizes the likelihood of a positive outcome.