You and a patron enter the locker room and find an unresponsive person lying on the floor. you size up the scene and form an initial impression, and then you b

General
1

you and a patron enter the locker room and find an unresponsive person lying on the floor. you size up the scene and form an initial impression, and then you begin performing a primary assessment. the patron asks, “should we move them to the first aid room?” what should you do next?

2

LectureNotes said you and a patron enter the locker room and find an unresponsive person lying on the floor. you size up the scene and form an initial impression, and then you begin performing a primary assessment. the patron asks, “should we move them to the first aid room?” what should you do next?

Answer: When encountering an unresponsive person, it is crucial to follow a well-structured emergency response protocol to ensure the safety and well-being of the victim. Here are the steps you should take:

1. Assess the Scene

Ensure that the scene is safe for both you and the victim. Look for any potential hazards, such as electrical wires, chemical spills, or other dangers that could harm you or the victim.

2. Form an Initial Impression

Observe the victim’s condition from a distance. Look for signs of life, such as movement, breathing, or any indication of consciousness.

3. Perform a Primary Assessment

  • Check for Responsiveness: Gently tap the person and shout, “Are you okay?” to see if there is any response.
  • Call for Help: If the person is unresponsive, instruct the patron to call emergency services (911 or the local emergency number) immediately. If an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is available, ask the patron to retrieve it.
  • Check for Breathing and Pulse: Look, listen, and feel for normal breathing for no more than 10 seconds. Check for a pulse simultaneously.

4. Decision on Moving the Victim

  • Do Not Move the Victim: Generally, you should not move an unresponsive person unless they are in immediate danger (e.g., fire, flooding, toxic fumes). Moving them could exacerbate any potential injuries, especially if there is a possibility of spinal injury.
  • Provide Care Where You Are: Begin providing necessary first aid or CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) at the location where you found the victim. Follow the steps for CPR if the person is not breathing and has no pulse:
    • Chest Compressions: Place your hands in the center of the chest and push hard and fast, at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute.
    • Rescue Breaths: After 30 compressions, give 2 rescue breaths if trained to do so. Ensure the airway is open by tilting the head back and lifting the chin.

5. Use an AED (if available)

  • Turn on the AED: Follow the voice prompts and instructions provided by the device.
  • Attach the Pads: Place the AED pads on the victim’s bare chest as indicated.
  • Analyze and Shock: Allow the AED to analyze the heart rhythm and follow its instructions. If a shock is advised, ensure no one is touching the victim and deliver the shock.

6. Continue Care

  • Perform Continuous Cycles of CPR: Continue CPR cycles (30 compressions followed by 2 breaths) until emergency medical services (EMS) arrive, the victim shows signs of life, or you are too exhausted to continue.

7. Communicate with EMS

  • Provide Information: When EMS arrives, provide them with all relevant information, including the victim’s condition, the care you have provided, and any observations you made during the incident.

By following these steps, you can ensure that you are providing the best possible care to the unresponsive person while minimizing the risk of further injury. Remember, the priority is to maintain the victim’s safety and provide immediate care until professional help arrives.