you and another lifeguard find an unresponsive adult on the locker room floor. the other lifeguard goes to summon ems personnel. you form an initial impression, complete a primary assessment and find that the victim has a pulse but is not breathing. which of the following should you do next?
What should you do when finding an unresponsive adult with a pulse but not breathing?
Answer:
When encountering an unresponsive adult who has a pulse but is not breathing, the next step should be to provide rescue breaths. In this situation, the victim’s body has a pulse, indicating that there is still some circulation, but they are not breathing, which means they are not getting oxygen into their body. To address this, follow these steps:
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Open the Airway: Ensure the victim’s airway is open by tilting their head back and lifting the chin. This helps to clear any obstructions and allows air to flow freely.
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Give Rescue Breaths: Pinch the victim’s nose, create a seal over their mouth with yours, and give two rescue breaths. Each breath should make the victim’s chest rise.
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Check for Signs of Breathing: After giving rescue breaths, look for signs of the victim’s chest rising and falling, indicating that they are breathing.
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Continue CPR: If the victim’s chest does not rise, continue giving rescue breaths at a rate of one breath every 5-6 seconds. Alternate between giving rescue breaths and checking for signs of breathing.
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Monitor the Victim: Keep monitoring the victim’s pulse and breathing while waiting for EMS personnel to arrive. Provide continuous care and support until help arrives.
Remember, providing prompt and effective CPR in such situations can significantly increase the chances of survival for the victim. It is crucial to act quickly and confidently to ensure the best possible outcome for the individual in distress.