Answer :
If an adult choking victim loses consciousness, rescuer should A) immediately perform CPR.
Call Emergency Services: First and foremost, the rescuer should call emergency services immediately. This ensures that professional medical help is on the way as quickly as possible.
Start CPR: While waiting for emergency services to arrive, the rescuer should start CPR. According to current guidelines, bystanders should perform compression-only CPR if they are not trained in providing mouth-to-mouth breathing. This involves performing chest compressions to keep the blood circulating.
To perform chest compressions:
- Place the heel of one hand in the center of the victim's chest and the other hand on top.
- Press down hard and fast, at a rate of about 100-120 compressions per minute, allowing the chest to rise fully between compressions.
Final answer:
When an adult choking victim loses consciousness, call emergency services immediately, check for visible obstructions in their mouth, and start CPR. The Heimlich maneuver is not appropriate for unconscious victims, and CPR training is essential for proper technique application.
Explanation:
If an adult choking victim loses consciousness, it is important to first call emergency services. After ensuring help is on the way, the rescuer should begin CPR immediately if there are no signs of breathing or a pulse. CPR will consist of giving chest compressions and rescue breaths. It is critical to check for any visible obstruction in the mouth before giving rescue breaths, and if you see an object that can be easily removed, to do so with a finger sweep. Performing CPR can be crucial for keeping the victim's blood circulating until medical professionals arrive. It is essential for the rescuer to have proper training in CPR to minimize the risk of injury to the victim and increase the chances of a successful resuscitation.
It's important to note that while back slaps and the Heimlich maneuver may be used when the victim is conscious and choking, these techniques are not appropriate once the victim loses consciousness. Additionally, rescue breathing should only be performed after calling for emergency services and initiating CPR.
Proper training in CPR and the Heimlich maneuver is vital, as incorrect application can cause significant harm. Therefore, individuals who want to be prepared to handle such emergencies should seek certified CPR training through recognized organizations such as the American Red Cross or local hospitals.
