Final answer:
If a patient with suspected opioid poisoning has a pulse but is not breathing properly, start rescue breathing and consider administering naloxone, then seek emergency medical assistance.
Step-by-step explanation:
If a patient with suspected opioid poisoning is not breathing normally but has a pulse, the next step is to provide rescue breathing immediately. Opioids can cause significant respiratory depression, leading to insufficient breathing or respiratory arrest. Rescue breathing is crucial because it can provide the necessary oxygen to the patient's lungs and sustain life until emergency medical services arrive. In addition, administering the opioid-overdose antidote naloxone (Narcan) should be considered if available. Naloxone can reverse the effects of opioid poisoning and restore normal breathing. After rescue breathing and naloxone administration, it is critical to seek emergency medical help.