What is your FIRST priority for an unconscious casualty?

When faced with an unconscious casualty, the first priority is to assess their breathing. This is crucial because without effective breathing, the body can suffer from a lack of oxygen, which can lead to irreversible damage or death within minutes. By determining whether the person is breathing normally, you can quickly ascertain the level of urgency for further action.

If the casualty is not breathing, immediate steps can be taken to provide necessary care, such as initiating CPR or calling for emergency services. Breathing assessment is typically done simultaneously with checking for consciousness, but it is prioritized because a person who is unconscious may still have functioning breathing, which allows for potential revival through appropriate first aid measures.

While checking for a pulse, determining consciousness, and assessing for signs of shock are important aspects of handling an unconscious casualty, they should follow the initial assessment of breathing. Airway management is essential, and ensuring that the casualty can breathe is the most immediate concern in this life-threatening situation.