Basic Life Support Steps
Basic life support Algorithm:
If you see an unresponsive individual.....
1. Check for responsiveness (Then if no movement or response)
2. Call for help: Activate EMS: Call 911 or emergency number in your local area
3. Remember ABC: “Look, Feel and Listen”
a. Check AIRWAY – for aspiration (never finger swipe blindly!)
b. Check Breathing - Put your ears near the mouth and look if there’s rise and fall of chest.. if no breathing, give 2 rescue breathing...
i. If it responded to intervention given: Give 1 breath every 5-6 seconds every 2 minutes
ii. If no response.
c. Check Circulation – feel pulse at Carotid artery within 10 seconds
i. If no pulse:
1. Give 30 compressions and 2 breaths until AED arrives, ACLS Provider arrives or victim starts to move.
a. Push hard and fast (100/min)
b. Release completely. Ensure full chest recoil.
c. Minimize interruptions in compression
d. Avoid hyperventilation
4. When AED arrives:
a. Check RYTHM: Shockable or not?
i. If shockable: Give 1 shock
1. Resume CPR immediately for 5 cycles
ii. If not shockable:
1. Resume CPR immediately for 5 cycles
2. Continue until ACLS provider arrives (usually the health care sent from the hospital who will take the responsibility)