What should a BLS provider do when assessing an unresponsive adult who has a definite pulse and is breathing normally?

When assessing an unresponsive adult who has a definite pulse and is breathing normally, maintaining an open airway is critical. This action ensures that the airway remains unobstructed, allowing the person to receive adequate oxygen without interruption. An unresponsive individual may not be able to keep their airway clear due to their lack of responsiveness, and without proper airway management, they are at risk for airway compromise or aspiration.

In such situations, the appropriate response is to position the person to facilitate airway patency. This may involve tilting the head back slightly (the head-tilt, chin-lift maneuver) to help open the airway while ensuring their breathing remains effective. It is vital for the provider to monitor the individual's breathing and pulse throughout this process.

The other options involve actions that are not suitable under these specific conditions. For instance, initiating chest compressions is not appropriate since the individual has a pulse. Calling for advanced medical assistance is generally a necessary step in the chain of survival, but it should typically be done after ensuring the safety and airway management of the patient. Providing rescue breaths is also unnecessary given that the person is breathing normally and does not require artificial ventilation. Thus, maintaining an open airway is the best course of action in this scenario.