What is the primary concern when an infant is unresponsive and gasping for breath?

The primary concern when dealing with an unresponsive infant who is gasping for breath is to start CPR immediately. In this critical situation, the infant is not breathing effectively, which can lead to a rapid decline in their condition. The gasping might be a sign of an inadequate respiratory effort, potentially indicating that the infant is not getting sufficient oxygen to vital organs.

Starting CPR serves two essential purposes: it helps to maintain blood flow to the heart and brain and it provides artificial ventilation to ensure that oxygen continues to be delivered to the body. This immediate response is crucial in preventing irreversible damage due to lack of oxygen, which can occur within minutes in infants.

Taking action quickly in this scenario is paramount, as every second counts when it comes to resuscitation efforts. Other considerations, like providing oxygen or checking for injuries, while important in different contexts, do not take precedence over initiating CPR in an unresponsive individual who is not breathing adequately.