How long should you check for breathing in an adult?

How long should you check for breathing in an adult?

• A. 5 seconds
• B. 10 seconds
• C. 15 seconds
• D. 20 seconds

Answer: (B)

When assessing an unresponsive adult, you should check for breathing for no more than 10 seconds. This brief window lets you quickly determine if there is normal breathing or if breathing is absent or only gasping, in which case you should start CPR and call for help immediately. Spending more than about 10 seconds risks delaying chest compressions, which are crucial in a cardiac arrest. To perform the check, look for chest rise, listen for breath sounds, and feel for breath on your cheek during that short period.

When assessing an unresponsive adult, you should check for breathing for no more than 10 seconds. This brief window lets you quickly determine if there is normal breathing or if breathing is absent or only gasping, in which case you should start CPR and call for help immediately. Spending more than about 10 seconds risks delaying chest compressions, which are crucial in a cardiac arrest. To perform the check, look for chest rise, listen for breath sounds, and feel for breath on your cheek during that short period.