What is the first step to check if an adult is breathing?

What is the first step to check if an adult is breathing?

• A. Open airway using head tilt, chin lift
• B. Check for breathing
• C. Look for movement
• D. Maintain open airway (look, listen and feel for breathing)

Answer: (A)

Opening the airway with a head tilt and chin lift is the first step because an obstructed airway can hide whether someone is actually breathing. When the airway is properly opened, air can reach the lungs, and you can reliably observe chest movement, listen for breath, and feel for air. This positioning clears the path so you can make an accurate breathing check for about 5 to 10 seconds. If you suspect a neck or spine injury, use a jaw-thrust to open the airway instead of the head tilt and chin lift. After the airway is open, you then proceed to assess breathing and, if none is present, follow the rescue steps your training requires.

Opening the airway with a head tilt and chin lift is the first step because an obstructed airway can hide whether someone is actually breathing. When the airway is properly opened, air can reach the lungs, and you can reliably observe chest movement, listen for breath, and feel for air. This positioning clears the path so you can make an accurate breathing check for about 5 to 10 seconds. If you suspect a neck or spine injury, use a jaw-thrust to open the airway instead of the head tilt and chin lift. After the airway is open, you then proceed to assess breathing and, if none is present, follow the rescue steps your training requires.