You find that the victim is not responsive, not breathing normally, and you've called 911. what is your next treatment?

General
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you find that the victim is not responsive, not breathing normally, and you’ve called 911. what is your next treatment?

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You find that the victim is not responsive, not breathing normally, and you’ve called 911. What is your next treatment?

1. Begin Chest Compressions

Once you’ve determined that the victim is not responsive and breathing abnormally, and you’ve already called emergency services, the next immediate step is to start Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR). The first focus is on chest compressions:

  • Positioning: Ensure the person is lying on their back on a firm, flat surface. Kneel beside the victim.
  • Hand Placement: Place the heel of one hand on the center of the chest (over the lower half of the sternum). Place your other hand on top, interlock your fingers.
  • Performing Compressions: Use your body weight to help compress the chest at least 2 inches deep (about 5 cm) at a rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute. Let the chest fully recoil between compressions.
  • Count Aloud: Counting compressions aloud can help keep track and maintain a steady rhythm.

2. Rescue Breaths after Compressions (if Trained)

If you are trained in CPR and confident in giving rescue breaths, follow these steps after every 30 chest compressions:

  • Open the Airway: Tilt the victim’s head back slightly by lifting their chin to open the airway.
  • Pinch Nose & Create Seal: Pinch the victim’s nose shut. Take a normal breath, seal your lips over the victim’s mouth, and breathe steadily.
  • Deliver Breaths: Give two breaths, each one lasting about 1 second, ensuring you see the chest rise. If the chest doesn’t rise, retilt the head and try another breath.
  • Continue Cycle: Alternate between 30 compressions and 2 breaths until help arrives or the victim starts breathing.

3. Use of Automated External Defibrillator (AED)

If an AED is accessible, use it as soon as possible while continuing CPR. Here’s how:

  • Turn on AED: Follow voice prompts.
  • Attach Pads: Expose the chest and attach AED pads as instructed, one below the right collarbone and the other on the left side below the armpit.
  • Follow Prompts: The AED will assess the heart rhythm. Ensure no one is touching the victim when the AED analyzes the heart rhythm.
  • Deliver Shock: If AED advises a shock, ensure everyone stands clear and press the shock button as instructed.
  • Resume CPR: Immediately resume chest compressions once the shock is delivered or if no shock is advised.

4. Special Considerations

  • If You’re Alone: Prioritize calling 911 and starting CPR immediately.
  • Children and Infants: For children (1 to puberty), use one hand for compressions. For infants (under 1), use two fingers for chest compressions and give 30 compressions followed by 2 gentle puffs of air.
  • Drowning or Drug Overdose: Start with rescue breaths if drowning is suspected, but return to standard CPR if no response.
  • Continuous Monitoring: Regularly check for signs of life but do not stop CPR unless the victim shows clear signs of breathing or help arrives.

Persistence and Reassurance

While it can be exhausting, persistence is crucial. Continue CPR until emergency responders relieve you, an AED is ready to use, or the victim shows signs of regaining consciousness. Remember, your actions can significantly increase the chances of survival.

The detailed steps provided help ensure clarity in what needs to be done in each situation, breaking the process into manageable parts to avoid panic. Keep practicing these steps to enhance your readiness in critical moments. Practice makes preparedness, and preparedness can save lives, @anonymous7.