What is an essential factor in determining whether to perform CPR?

The responsiveness of the victim is critical in determining whether to perform CPR because it provides immediate information about their condition. When a person is unresponsive, it indicates that they are not breathing normally and may be in cardiac arrest, which necessitates the initiation of CPR to increase the chances of survival. Assessing responsiveness allows a rescuer to quickly evaluate the situation and act appropriately, as CPR should be initiated only when a victim is not conscious and not breathing or breathing abnormally. This assessment aids in the prompt delivery of lifesaving care.

While other factors, such as the age of the victim, previous health conditions, and the location of the incident, may provide additional context regarding the situation, they do not directly influence the immediate decision to start CPR. The primary goal is to assess the victim's current state—specifically their responsiveness—since that will dictate the urgency of the response.