What are the correct actions to take if someone stops breathing?
When someone stops breathing, it can quickly become a life-or-death situation. Every second that goes by is precious.
The most typical indicators of lack of airflow are non-responsiveness and pale or blue skin. But the key is knowing what to do if you encounter the circumstances.
So never ignore the signs of an impending medical issue with a friend or family member. Read on to find out what to do if you come across someone who has stopped breathing.
Assess for Consciousness
If someone has stopped breathing and is unresponsive, the immediate priority is to assess the person’s consciousness. If conscious, encourage them to breathe deeply and reassuringly and remain calm.
If possible, check the person’s vital signs, such as pulse and respiration rate. If the person is unconscious, check for signs of life, such as breath or pulse.
If someone has stopped breathing and is unresponsive, learning MyCPR NOW can make a massive difference in resuscitating the individual.
Initiate CPR Immediately
If someone stops breathing and is unresponsive, the first step is to initiate CPR immediately. CPR is cardiopulmonary resuscitation and can help a person regain circulation and breathing.
To perform emergency CPR correctly, ensure the person is lying on their back and extend the head and chin forward. Start chest compressions at 100 to 120 per minute using both hands and pushing down one to two inches.
After 30 compressions, offer two rescue breaths and keep repeating the process until someone with medical training arrives.
Utilize an AED (Automatic External Defibrillator)
Using an AED (Automatic External Defibrillator), you can quickly help a person in trouble by checking their pulse and rhythm and, if necessary, giving them an electric shock to get their heart beating normally again.
It is important to start CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) before the AED is ready. While CPR is being done, the AED can tell if a shock is needed.
After using the AED correctly and giving the person a shock, CPR should be done again until the person wakes up or help arrives.
Administer First Aid & Basic Life Support
If someone has stopped breathing and is unresponsive, immediate medical attention should be provided as soon as possible. If you are in an area that offers rapid-response medical assistance, you should call for help.
If medical assistance is unavailable, you should administer first aid and essential life support. Check for an unconscious pulse and look for signs of breathing.
If they are not breathing, begin rescue breaths and check their airway.
Call 911
If someone stops breathing and is unresponsive, it is vital to get them medical assistance immediately. You should call 911 for emergency medical assistance if a person is alone.
If it is impossible to make the call, have someone call for help. At the same time, you start the steps of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).
Be Alert If Someone Stopped Breathing
If you are unsure what to do if someone stops breathing and is unresponsive, the best action for anyone is to always call for emergency help first! Emergencies require fast and efficient assistance from medical professionals, and having them on the scene can determine life-saving interventions.
Call 911 immediately to ensure the best chance at survival for someone who stopped breathing.
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