What is the correct action when you encounter an unconscious person who is breathing?

What is the correct action when you encounter an unconscious person who is breathing?

• A. Put them into recovery position and monitor breathing
• B. Shake them to wake them
• C. Begin CPR immediately
• D. Call for medical help only if they stop breathing

Answer: (A)

When someone is unconscious but still breathing, the priority is to keep the airway open and reduce the risk of choking or aspiration while you monitor them and get help if needed. Placing them in the recovery position achieves this by turning them onto their side with the head supported. This position prevents the tongue from blocking the airway, allows any vomit or fluids to drain away, and makes it easier to observe their breathing and respond quickly if their condition worsens. Shaking to wake won’t protect the airway and can cause injury, so it isn’t appropriate. Beginning CPR isn’t indicated while there is still breathing, since CPR is reserved for when breathing stops. Waiting to call for help only if breathing stops isn’t appropriate, because you should obtain assistance now while you monitor them. In short, place them in the recovery position and keep a close watch on their breathing.

When someone is unconscious but still breathing, the priority is to keep the airway open and reduce the risk of choking or aspiration while you monitor them and get help if needed. Placing them in the recovery position achieves this by turning them onto their side with the head supported. This position prevents the tongue from blocking the airway, allows any vomit or fluids to drain away, and makes it easier to observe their breathing and respond quickly if their condition worsens. Shaking to wake won’t protect the airway and can cause injury, so it isn’t appropriate. Beginning CPR isn’t indicated while there is still breathing, since CPR is reserved for when breathing stops. Waiting to call for help only if breathing stops isn’t appropriate, because you should obtain assistance now while you monitor them. In short, place them in the recovery position and keep a close watch on their breathing.